Uncovering barriers to sustainable environmental policy: Integrating tree planting into emission trading systems

Climate change has intensified the need for nature-based solutions that complement existing carbon reduction strategies. This study investigates Taiwanese respondents' perceptions of tree plantation as a nature-based approach within the proposed green quota (GQ) framework. Drawing on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the theory of reasoned action (TRA), this study examines the relationships among awareness of climate change, intention of tree plantation and perceived usefulness of trees. The questionnaire data were collected in Taiwan and analyses using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and structural equation modelling (SEM). The results identified three underlying constructs: awareness of climate change, intention of tree plantation and usefulness of trees. SEM analysis showed that awareness of climate change positively influenced both the intention of tree plantation and the perceived usefulness of trees, while intention of tree plantation exerted the strongest positive effect on the perceived usefulness of trees and partially mediated this relationship. ANOVA further revealed significant differences in awareness of climate change and the perceived usefulness of trees across employment sectors. Although the respondents recognized the environmental benefits of tree plantation, economic incentives and employment opportunities were important factors influencing participation intentions. The findings support established behavioural theories and provide empirical evidence regarding Taiwanese respondents' perceptions of tree plantation. These behavioural insights may assist policymakers in developing future nature-based climate mitigation initiatives while recognizing that the findings are limited to individual perceptions and should not be interpreted as evidence of policy effectiveness or industry-level implementation.