Essential psychology for environmental policy making

In this article major environmental problems and their different levels and global spheres of impact are surveyed. Environmental exploitation is discu ssed as an inherent characteristic of free market economies under limited c ognitive-motivational inclinations of individual actors. A conceptual model ling of environmental problem solving is presented, which comprises the com mons dilemma paradigm as well as a needs-opportunities-abilities (NOA) mode l of consumer behaviour, a categorization of human needs, a simple taxonomy of behavioural processes, and seven strategies for behaviour change. Six l ines of psychological research are identified, ranging from environmental a ttitudes to environmental policy-decision support systems. An ecological cr itique of mainstream psychology is summarized and some suggestions are made to resolve this. Conclusions are drawn about needed research, policy makin g, and international diplomacy.