Understanding Environmental Knowledge Among Road Users Through the Lens of the SES Approach

Abstract

This study examines the formation of social-ecological indicators among motor vehicle users related to pollutant emissions in Kuala Terengganu. Vehicle emissions are identified as one of the main contributors to urban air pollution; however, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies that integrate social and ecological aspects. This study employs the Social-Ecological Systems (SES) Framework to identify factors influencing user behavior, as well as related governance and infrastructure elements. A total of 11 informants were interviewed in a semi-structured manner, including users, government agency representatives, academic experts, and private industry representatives. Data were analyzed thematically based on codes derived from the SES framework. Initial findings indicate that factors such as user awareness, economic constraints, the effectiveness of existing policies, and access to green technology influence the formation of effective indicators. This study proposes several social-ecological indicators that local authorities can use to formulate more inclusive and community-based policies. These findings are expected to contribute to more sustainable carbon footprint management.