Research on the Application of Environmental Policy based on Nudge Theory_Vol. 3 No. 3 (JMSD 2026)_Journal of Management and Social Development (ISSN: 3005-5741)

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Research on the Application of Environmental Policy based on Nudge Theory

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jmsd.202612303

Author(s)

Shaoheng Chen

Affiliation(s)

Economics Department, Minnan Normal University, Zhangzhou, Fujian, China

Abstract

This paper investigates the application of nudge theory in environmental policy, focusing on its effectiveness, limitations, and ethical controversies. Through a review of behavioral policy literature, this study determines five core ethical concerns: Autonomy and Manipulation, Transparency and Democratic Legitimacy, Context-Dependency and Cross-Cultural Validity, Limited Long-term Effectiveness, and Fairness and Distributive Justice. In return to these concerns, this paper constructs a governance framework for the five pillars of green nudging: Initiative Enhancement Design, Transparency and Explainability, Cultural Adaptability, Long-term Effectiveness Assurance, and Fairness and Distributive Justice. This paper conducts a literature based conceptual review and the framework is based on empirical evidence from diverse geographical contexts. A set of tools that are both theoretically grounded and practical are provided in this study for policymakers, enabling them to use methods of behavioral insights to promote environmental sustainability without violating ethical responsibilities.

Keywords

Green Nudges, Behavioral Public Policy; Ethical Governance; Environmental Policy; Five-Pillar Framework

References

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