Factors Linked to Energy Conservation Practices, Recall of Energy Conservation Messages, and Stair Use among University Students

Objectives: Elevators consume a sizeable amount of energy. This studydetermines the characteristics of those who: (i) already engaged in various energy saving strategies at home, (ii) were willing to learn more about energy saving strategies and (iii) correctly recalled a poster containing an energy conservation message.

Method: Copies of the posters were placed near elevators on each floor of two multistory university campus buildings.A convenience sample of students who frequented these buildings completed a self-administered questionnaire.

Results: Correct recall of the poster was 20.8%. Older age was associated with using the stairs more frequently, and more years of schooling was associated with showering for less than 10 minutes. Those who recalled the poster correctly reported using the elevator more frequently and turning off the TV when not in use. Those who could improve their energy conservation practices appeared to have better poster recall. Further suggestions are provided.