Abstract:
Plastic pollution and environmental degradation are urgent challenges in Sri Lanka, threatening
health, biodiversity, and sustainability. While regulatory measures exist, community-level behavior
change remains underexplored, especially when framed through Sri Lanka’s cultural values. This
study develops a conceptual framework that integrates global psychological theories with local
cultural traditions to promote pro-environmental behavior. A narrative literature review was
conducted, drawing on peer-reviewed articles, policy reports, and cultural texts published between
2015 and 2025. Sources were selected for their relevance to environmental behavior, psychology,
and Sri Lankan cultural practices, ensuring a balance between global and local perspectives. The
framework highlights mediators such as attitudes, social norms, perceived behavioral control, ecoanxiety, and collective efficacy, anchored in religious ethics of compassion, stewardship, and
interconnectedness. Practical illustrations include plastic reduction initiatives in temples, schools,
and local councils. The framework offers pathways for empirical testing through surveys, pilot
interventions, and community-based projects. Recommendations include culturally sensitive
campaigns, youth-led initiatives, and community partnerships to strengthen collective
responsibility for sustainability.
