Mindful Consumption and Sustainable Vehicle Choices: Navigating Sustainability in the Age of Industry 6.0

Abstract

With global warming, ecological damage, and increased material consumption, there is a growing demand for a shift toward a more intentional and responsible form of consumerism. Conventional consumerism, powered by speed, stature and disposability, has resulted in impractical economic and environmental developments. This study explores to what extent mindfulness as a psychological and intentional construct can promote sustainable consumerism by looking at automotive purchases—a purchase that inherently reflects more significant eco-commitments, such as electric vehicles (EVs) or used vehicles.

This study employs a mixed-method approach for quantitative and qualitative explorations. The study’s sample consisted of 150 usable responses to an online survey measuring car buying patterns, intentions, environmental awareness, and trust in technology. Quantitative analysis was conducted through descriptive statistics, factor analysis (Principal Component Analysis [PCA]), correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM). In addition, themes were coded from open-ended responses for the purposes of establishing dimensions of mindful consumption.

Major conclusions identify that sustainable consumption practices are strongly associated with green-oriented actions like buying second-hand cars (38.67%), keeping fuel efficiency (22.67%), and environmental considerations (20%) in mind while making car purchases. SEM supported that environmental consciousness (β = 0.48), trust in technology (β = 0.39), and awareness of fuel efficiency (β = 0.33) all have significant impacts on interest in EVs, whereas cost consciousness (β = −0.31) is a deterrent. Qualitative analysis identified themes of environmental consciousness, value-conscious choices, and technology-linked prudence as defining characteristics of responsible consumers.