Three essays on the economics of consumer and recreational user behavior

Abstract

This dissertation explores the interplay between environmental policies, consumer and recreational user behavior, and major global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Comprising three distinct chapters, each chapter delves into a specific aspect of these themes.

The first two chapters focus on environmental concerns. The first chapter delves into the rising global awareness of plastic waste in the sea, examining its impact on the environment and consumer decisions. The second chapter investigates the influence of freshwater quality on residents' choices of public lake recreation, shedding light on how environmental factors shape recreational user behavior. The last chapter centers around the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, it explores how the pandemic has transformed consumer grocery shopping preferences.

Together, these chapters contribute to the exploration of important aspects related to environmental policies, consumer preferences, and the impact of a significant global event.