Modeling sustainable environmental responsibility behavior of students in private university

Using a novel integration of Environmental Literacy Theory, the Theory of Planned Behavior, and Sustainable Development Theory, this study models the determinants of environmentally responsible behavior (often termed organizational citizenship behavior for the environment [OCBE]) among undergraduates at private universities in Malaysia. Data were collected via stratified random sampling of 450 students and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings show that environmental attitudes and a sense of responsibility partially mediate the effect of environmental knowledge on OCBE, highlighting their pivotal roles. These results suggest that educational interventions should not only impart environmental knowledge but also foster pro-environmental attitudes and responsibility. The framework provides guidance for educators and policymakers to design curricula and policies that align with Malaysia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national environmental education targets. By highlighting these mediating factors, the study offers actionable insights for universities and policymakers aiming to advance Malaysia’s sustainability education agenda and SDGs.