Validation of the Integrated Pro-Environmental Behaviours Scale (I-PEBS)

Scope: Climate change is one of the most significant threats to human health in the 21st century. Between 2030 and 2050, the number of annual deaths due to climate change, driven by human behaviour, is projected to rise by approximately 250,000. Objectives: This study aims to integrate and adapt the Pro-Environmental Behaviours Scale (PEBS) and evaluate the psychometric properties of the resulting Integrated Pro-Environmental Behaviours Scale (I-PEBS). It seeks to provide a comprehensive measure by incorporating a range of important pro-environmental behaviours and standardizing response formats, enabling the calculation of a synthetic index. Methods: A total of 510 Italian adults (54% female, aged 18–55; M = 35.2, SD = 12.6) participated in this study. Statistical distribution measures were calculated for I-PEBS items, followed by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses and a construct validity test. Results: Exploratory factor analysis identified an 18-item, six-factor solution, and confirmatory factor analysis showed satisfactory fit indices. Conclusions: The proposed scale has been shown to serve as a reliable and accessible instrument for the assessment of pro-environmental behaviours. This scale can be regarded as a valuable resource for researchers who seek to promote the imperative shift towards more sustainable lifestyles.