Modelling Farmer’s Intention-behavior to Participate in Ecological Governance in the Northwest China Arid Region

Modelling Farmer’s Intention-behavior to Participate in Ecological Governance in the Northwest China Arid Region | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Modelling Farmer’s Intention-behavior to Participate in Ecological Governance in the Northwest China Arid Region Liangquan Dong, Giulia Maesano, Qianna Li, Juan Yao, Yizhe Wang, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 10 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Ecological governance is an important tool to curb environmental degradation in the arid regions of northwest China. Given the crucial role of farmers in supporting the environmental health of rural communities, this study aims to clarify the factors that influence farmers’ intentions and behaviour in participating in environmental governance. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse data from 315 farmers in Changji City, Xinjiang. The model examines the influence of emotional attachment to the environment, awareness of responsibility for the environment and perceived ease of participation on farmers’ intention to participate in environmental governance. The results suggest that emotional and practical factors significantly increase intentions to participate, while some social norms and perceived effectiveness of governance have limited effects. These findings emphasise the need for interventions that strengthen practical support and emotional engagement and address both psychological and structural barriers to promote sustainable environmental practises in rural areas. Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences Social science/Environmental studies Scientific community and society/Geography Social science/Geography farmer participation in ecologicalgovernance participation behaviour intention-behaviour Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Northwest China Arid Region Figures Figure 1 1. Introduction The concept of ecological governance is increasingly recognised as an essential aspect of sustainable development, especially in geographic areas where there is a convergence between ecological vulnerability and economic dependence on natural resources (Mondal & Palit, 2022 ). Arid regions in northwestern China face extraordinary challenges, including water scarcity, soil erosion, desertification, and ecological degradation resulting from intensive agricultural practices (Turner, Molyneux, Yang, Xiong, & Siddique, 2011 & J. Xue et al., 2019 ).These problems are further exacerbated by an over-reliance on oasis agriculture, as shown in the study byLiu et al (Liu, Ge, Wu, & Li, 2024 ). Land degradation and water depletion constantly threaten oases, which are essential for agricultural and human survival(X. Xue, Liao, Hsing, Huang, & Liu, 2015 ).This makes effective ecological governance important and indispensable for long-term environmental and economic stability (Dhawi & Aleidan, 2024 ). As the primary custodians of rural landscapes, farmers play a central role in conservation and restoration initiatives (Wei et al., 2009 ). The agricultural practices employed by these communities exert considerable influence on a range of critical aspects of ecosystem health, including soil quality, water resources and biodiversity (Raymond, Bieling, Fagerholm, Martin-Lopez, & Plieninger, 2016 ). Therefore, their active participation in ecological governance is crucial to ensure alignment between policy objectives and implementation on the ground (Yin et al., 2022 ). Despite the importance of their role, farmers’ participation in ecological governance remains limited (Krom & M., 2017 & Mills et al., 2017 & Runhaar et al., 2017 & Wynne-Jones, 2017 ). Regarding the promotion of participatory governance, the gap between the desire for reform and actual implementation varies from country to country, andcan arguably be interpreted as an expression of the prevailing institutional and political complexity(Lovan, Murray, & Shaffer, 2004 ). European agri-environmental schemes (AES) have been criticised for exacerbating rather than denying the conflicting relationships between agricultural production and environmental production and for assuming rather than persuading people'swillingness to bear the costs ofagri-environmental change(Krom & M., 2017). Policymakershave recognisedthat understanding the response of individual stakeholders to policy interventions must increase if they are to achieve the success of interventions to bring about widespread change in agriculture. These interventions, by which policymakersseek solutions to the problems of agricultural surpluses and budget overruns that also address social and environmental concerns (Burton, 2004 ), require a means of anticipating farmers'motivation to comply with new approaches (Austin et al., 1998 ). Public opinion plays an important role in cooperative environmental policy, as public preferences are of great importance in formulating policies by government agencies. Public participation is considereda necessary approach to social issues (W. F. Strydom, 2018 ), and effective suggestions from individuals will directly impact the policy-making process of environmental governance (Shi, Xu, & Duan, 2022 ).However, previous studies have paid little attention to public participation in collaborative environmental governance during urban-rural integrated development(Gao, Wang, & Gu, 2020 ). Despite China's growing emphasis on participatory governance frameworks, these initiatives have predominantly been shaped by a top-down approach that often fails to acknowledge farmers' diverse motivations, challenges, and circumstances (Y. Li & Wu, 2012 & Liao, Ross, Jones, & Palaniappan, 2024 ). The use of participatory methodologies has proven to be an effective approach for integrating local knowledge and improving policy outcomes on a global scale (Lovan, Murray, & Shaffer, 2017 & W. F. Strydom, 2018 & Tengö, Austin, Danielsen, & Fernández-Llamazares, 2021 ). However, in the context of rural governance in China, such models often fail to consider the socio-psychological and structural factors that influence the level of farmer engagement (Yazdanpanah et al., 2022 ). It is critical to understand these factors, as research has highlighted the importance of addressing behavioural drivers, including psychological, economic, and social dimensions (Krom & M., 2017). Existing literature rarely considers how emotional attachment, social norms, and perceived ease of participation influence farmers' decisions in this distinctive context.There is a clear need for in-depth investigation to uncover behavioural drivers and barriers in this region, which relies on top-down governance frameworks and has limited farmer participation in green initiatives. Such knowledge is essential for designing effective policies that facilitate participation and are adapted to local contexts. The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) has been widely applied to explore participation in environmental activities.This theory highlights behavioural attitude, social norms, and perceived behavioural control as decisive factors (Ajzen, 1985 ). However, while the TPB has been applied globally to investigate environmental behaviours, its application in the arid regions of northwest China remains limited. Moreover, studies have revealed discrepancies in the effectiveness of these factors. To illustrate, social norms often have limited influence in individualistic decision-making contexts (Terry & O'Leary, 1995 ). Similarly, perceived governance effectiveness may not directly translate into engagement when economic or structural constraints are high (Falconer, 2000 & Shi et al., 2022 ). Despite these insights, there remain gaps in understanding how these factors interact in the unique context of Northwest China. Farmers in this region face greater environmental and economic pressures, yet their participation behaviour remains understudied, particularly concerning the interaction between intention, ease of participation, and normative influences (Gemtou et al., 2024 ). The present study addresses this gap in knowledge by exploring the psychological, social and structural factors that are distinctive to this context.This paper investigates the internal psychological mechanism of promoting farmers' active participation in local ecological environment governance in the real background and addresses the following research questions: 1. What structural factors affect farmers' intention and behaviour to participate in ecological governance in arid farming regions? 2. How do these factors interact to influence participation pathways? 3. What role do intention, perceived ease of participation, and social norms play in shaping ecological governance behaviours? The study employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to address these questions,byanalysing survey data collected from 315 farmers in Changji City, Xinjiang, in January 2022. The arid region in Northwest China, especially Changji City in Xinjiang, was chosen because fragile ecosystems with problems such as scarce water resources, desertification, and soil erosion characterize it. These challenges are exacerbated by intensive oasis agriculture, making it a critical area for ecological governance efforts. The SEM approach allows for examining complex relationships among latent variables, including emotional attachment to ecological governance, awareness of responsibilities, perceived ease of participation, and social norms. By integrating psychological, social, and contextual factors, the model reveals both direct and mediated pathways influencing farmers' participation. This approach provides a holistic understanding of the dynamics at play and offers actionable insights for improving rural environmental governance strategies.The findings of this study have the potential to inform governance strategies not only for China's arid regions, but also for other areas facing similar ecological and socioeconomic challenges The paper is organised into six sections: the first section discusses the importance of ecological governance in arid regions of Northwest China and defines the research questions. The second section presents the Literature Review and definition of hypotheses using behavioural theories. The Data and Methods are presented in section three. The fourth sectionpresents the results, identifying factors such as emotional and practical considerations that influence participation. Section five presents the Discussion of results. Finally, the last section is dedicated to the conclusions. 2. Literature Review and Research Hypotheses Participatory development as an efficient style of social governance has spread to different communities in many countries (Hui, Chen, Lang, & Ou, 2021 & X. Li, Zhang, Hui, & Lang, 2020 & Newig & Fritsch, 2009 ). Taking differences in public life seriously requires a radical expansion of opportunities for participation not only in public discourse, but also in the institutions of economic, social and political life (Gould, 1996 ). Governance is perhaps better interpreted as “power to” “ rather than "power over”, whereby stakeholders seek to gain agency by pooling their resources, skills and goals in a sustainable partnership (Bridoux, 2022 & Goodwin, 1998 ). Another key dynamic affecting the governance process is the endeavour to make public policy more responsive to citizens' needs through citizen participation mechanisms (Lovan et al., 2004 ). Agri-environmental schemes (AES) are gradually being implemented to encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly (Boksberger, 2011).There is a large number of studies on farmers’ willingness, motivation, decision-making, etc. to participate in AES, and farm size, environmental sentiment, trust, etc. are common topics of discussion(Teff-Seker, Segre, Eizenberg, Orenstein, & Shwartz, 2022 & Wheeler et al., 2021 ).Behavioral factors and opportunity costs in Australia, Europe and North America(Schaub et al., 2023 ), the expected impactonagriculturalproduction and the farmers' environmental attitude of farmers in Belgium, are factors that influence the acceptance of agri-environmental measures policies. Farm size, and previous experience of farmers orneighbouring farmers with agri-environmental schemesalsoaffectfarmers’decision to participate(Vanslembrouck, Huylenbroeck, & Verbeke, 2002 ).The main motives for participating in the AES were economic and personal satisfaction. The motives for participating in AES were location-specific, reflecting differences in culture, farmingsystems, natural environment and landscapes(Pavlis, Terkenli, Kristensen, Busck, & Cosor, 2016 ). Thegrowingimportance of conservation-oriented motivesfor AES participation across Europe impliesthe“new hypothesis” that environmental concernsareoftenasimportantasthe financial needtoparticipate(Hobbs, 2021 ). Further comparative research on more complex indicatorsofprogramsuccess is needed,particularly on factors influencingfarmers' incomes, farmers'environmental attitudes, and the environmental quality of the countryside targeted by AESs(Geoff A Wilson, 2000 ). Participation rates are important for assessing the success of the AES. Higher compensation payments could increase the participation rate of some farmers who have hardly participated so far(McGurk, Hynes, & Thorne, 2020 ). The concrete participation of most farmersin the regionalised AES would bring about a long-term and environmentally friendly change in farmers' behaviourif farmers were able to establish social links by gaining the recognition and cooperation of other regional actors for their agri-environmental work (Krom & M., 2017). Researchers examine aspects of farmers’ well-beingconcerning their participation in the AESand discuss how farmers’ social activity, identity, status and sense of place are enhanced by participation in the CFP and how this might support their continued work in the AES(Mills et al., 2017 ).Furthermore, recognising the potential of AES participation to improve farmerwelfare can demonstrate the added value of the AES and strengthen the case for AES funding when the UK leaves the European Union(Saxby, Gkartzios, & Scott, 2018 s et al., 2021). In previous research, most empirical studies have not provided decision-relevant results, as the role of farmers and the available AEM budget have been ignored. Economic approaches tend to make only rough hypotheses about ecological and economic processes and are not suitable fordecision-making. The competent authorities rarely make meaningful use of decisionsupport tools based on these disciplinary results and rarely consider system factors and environmental conditions simultaneously at high spatial resolution.In the existing research, most empirical studies have failed to provide results relevant to decision-making, as the role of farmers and the available AEM budget is ignored. Economic approaches tend to make only rough hypotheses about ecological and economic processes and are unsuitable fordecision-making. Competent authorities rarely make meaningful use ofdecision-supporttools based on these disciplinary results and rarely consider system factors and environmental conditions simultaneously at high spatial resolution(Uthes & Matzdorf, 2013 ). Regarding the factors influencing farmers’ participation in environmental policy, the researchers mainly discuss psychological, ecological and social factors. The reasons for the farmers’ decision-making process are analysed using two multinomial models. The results of one model indicate that farmers’ participation isconstrained by labour-intensive farming practices and a high dependence of household income on agricultural activity, while farmers’ willingness to participate isencouraged by previous experience, easy-to-implement environmentally friendly farming practices and adequate compensation for additional costs.The results of the other model show that, in addition to income factors, the farm's future,relationships with neighboring farmers, and their views on environmentally friendly practices significantly influence the adoption of agri-environmental measures. Farmers’ attitudes and beliefs and local behavioural influences must be considered when designing and communicating agri-environmental measures (Defrancesco, Gatto, Runge, & Trestini, 2007 ). Behavioural attitudes, social norms and perceived behavioural control are the fundamental and decisive determinants in the theory of planned behaviour, which assumes that people’s specific behavioursdepend on profound considerations(Ajzen, 1985 ). The more confidence people have in their ability to participate in collaborative governance and the fewer potential obstacles they anticipate, the stronger the intention will be activated(Si, Shen, Liu, & Wu, 2021 ). Ajzen has described PBC(perceived behavioural control)as the person’s belief that, despite the possible performance of the behaviour, the controlling factors can be either internal (e.g. abilities, skills, willpower, constraints) or external (e.g. time, opportunity, dependence on others)(Ajzen, 1985 , 1991 ). Although these indicators are crucial for the evaluation of the programs, they neglect the attitude of farmers– or, more precisely, the possible changes in attitude brought about by the programs − as a decisive indicator of the success of the AES(Wilson & Hart, 2001 ). The researchers assessed the utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), data collection obtained measures of attitudes, norms, intentions, perceived control and self-efficacy, and actual behaviour. The results showed that separate measures of self-efficacy and perceived behavioural control should be adopted in TPB, which distinguished the effects of perceived behavioural control and self-efficacy on behavioural intentions and actual behavior (Terry & O'Leary, 1995 ). The decision of farmers to participate is central to the achievement of policy objectives, and recent research has found that such schemes potentially havehigh transaction costs for both the state and farmers (Falconer, 2000 ). The transaction costs incurred by farmers not only reduce the programs' cost-effectiveness but can also represent a significant barrier to participation in the programs, with the opposite effect on the supply of nature conservation goods. At the level of the individual participant, the development of one-stop-shops for agri-environmental measures in the Member States for all schemes would help to ensure that transaction cost savings save on the overheads of applying for different schemes with different objectives and a more synthetic, clearer approach to participation is adopted. The longer-term value of farmer networks and capacitybuilding for agri-environmental management is also important (Falconer, 2000 ). The determinants of the spatial location of participation in the AES are reviewed. In particular, it is essential to understand the interaction between structural determinants, prioritisation criteria and spillover effects in driving participation. The results indicate that both the prioritisation criteria and the spatial dimension significantly influenced participation(Raggi, Viaggi, Bartolini, & Furlan, 2015 ). Financial constraintsaffect the economic well-being of farming families in both the short and long term, as well as production efficiency and technology adoption. Both liquidity and ability to pay negatively impact participation in agri-environmental programmes such as the Conservation Reserve Programme (CRP) and Environmental Quality Incentives Programmes (EQIPs) in the US, while access to the internet plays an important role in farmers'decisions to participate in CRP and EQIP,and farmers just starting out are more likely to participate in EQIP (Mishra & Khanal, 2013 ). There is still a lack ofconceptual and empirical studies on the importance of social capital in the adaptation of farmers’ environmental behavior (Krom & M., 2017). The participation of rural people in environmental governance in the less developed areas of northwest China has received little attention, and most studies focus on the general willingness of farmers to participate, but do not distinguish between the forms of farmers' willingness to participate and only examine the willingness to participate based on "labour and labour power" or the willingnesstopay based on"equityparticipation and payment", ignoring the correlation between the two forms(Xin-min, Wei, & Wen-ming, 2021 ). Based on the theoretical and empirical literature, this paper formulates hypotheses for farmers' participation in environmental governance. To avoid verbosity, the indicators in the table are presented in capital letters. See Table 1 below for details. IPEG–Intention to participate in ecological governance EEG –Emotion of ecological governance participation AREG–Awareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance participation EPEG–Effectiveness perception of ecological governance FIEG–Function identification of ecological governance PBEG – Participation behaviour of ecological governance PEP –Perceived ease of performing to participation SN - Social norms Table 1 Hypotheses and paths Hypotheses Path H1. Emotion of ecological governance (EEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). EEG→IPEG H2. Awareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance (AREG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). AREG→IPEG H3.Effectiveness perception of ecological governance (EPEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). EPEG→IPEG H4. Function identification of ecological governance (FIEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). FIEG→IPEG H5. Intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) positively affects ecological governance's (PBEG) participation behaviour. IPEG→PBEG H6. Perceived ease of performing to participation (PEP) moderated by intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) affects the participation behaviour of ecological governance (PBEG). PEP*IPEG→PBEG H7. Social norms (SN) moderated by intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) affects the participation behaviour of ecological governance (PBEG) SN*IPEG→PBEG 3. Data and Methods 3.1. Context of research The dryland area in northwest China is a typical agricultural oasis area, and the special water, soil, light and heat conditions place higher demands on the environmental competence and participation intentions and behaviours of local agricultural subjects in ecological governance. The characteristics of farmers' natural "presence" determine that farmers are the practical subjects of rural ecological environment governance (Han, 2014 ), and the level of the governance of the rural environment is largely determined by the breadth and depth of farmers' participation (Meng, 2022). As an important base for agriculture and animal husbandry, a "leisure tourism backyard", one of Xinjiang's flagship counties and towns, Changji Town has taken active and effective measures to improve the living environment and protect agroecology. Ensuring a good rural ecological environment in Changji Town and other regions plays a key role in the survival and development of people in arid areas and the process of agricultural modernisation in oases. Behind the rapid economic growth lies high energy consumption and high pollutant emissions, which are placing an enormous burden on China's ecological environment (Jing & Shuanghua, 2011 ). Rural areas are not spared either, and the ecological problems of rural areas are increasingly coming to the fore. In the past, deforestation, land clearing, overgrazing and other man-made damage have led to soil degradation, vegetation destruction and other ecological problems, as well as a large amount of carelessly piled household waste and domestic sewage discharged at will. The excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, the improper treatment of agricultural waste, etc. have polluted rural households and agricultural production (Yanchun, 2021 ). The main position of farmers in rural areas determines the provision and efficient management of all public goods in rural areas, which must ultimately be implemented by farmers (DUYanqiang, Nuojia, & Ligen, 2021 ). Although farmers are included in the environmental policy system, they still face many difficulties in participating in environmental governance in rural areas. At the government level, the top-down organisational model and the government's responsiveness affect the level of farmers' participation. At the village level, the change of rural social structure, labour migration, and the merging of natural villages aggravate the phenomenon of farmers' collective inactivity. At the individual level of farmers, the lack of interest linkage mechanism and the increasing heterogeneity of farmers affect farmers' participation in environmental governance (DUYanqiang et al., 2021 & Huayin, 2020 & Kong & Lu, 2019 ). 3.2. Data collection The research team completed the survey in January 2022. This survey consists of two phases. In March 2021, in the first exploratory phase, municipal governments in the study area were visited first to understand the environmental governance of each municipality, to provide a basis for designing this research plan. The second phase is the formal survey phase, in which the research team conducted a random survey of farmer households in the study area in January 2022. To ensure the accuracy and validity of the survey data, 320 questionnaires were distributed in the form of face-to-face interviews. Five invalid questionnaires were excluded from the data collection, and 315 valid questionnaires were received, corresponding to an effective rate of 98%. The questionnaire design focused on identifying suitable reflective indicators to measure latent variables (intent to participate in ecological governance, perceived ease of participation, perceived effectiveness of ecological governance, emotions of participating in ecological governance, awareness of rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance, identification of the function of ecological governance, behaviour of participating in ecological governance, social norms) among farmers in the arid region of Northwest China. The questionnaire consisted of three main sections. The first section covered the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents and collected information on gender, ethnic group, age, education, health status, agricultural training, distance from city (km), family size (person), annual per capita income of family (10,000 yuan), cultivated area (mu), quality of cultivated land, village cadres/village representatives. The second section measures farmers’ behaviour in shaping the rural environment through a table with 3 items measuring the rate of fertilizer and pesticide application, soil improvement measures, and farmers’ environmental behaviour. The measurement scale for each behavior is a five-component scale, and the specific indicators and items are listed in Table 2 . The third section aims to measure factors affecting farmers’ participation in rural ecological governance. The section originally contained 27 items measuring variables such as intentions, emotions, perceived ease, effectiveness, responsibility and awareness related to environmental governance, measured with a Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5). Four items adopted from the literature were used to measure IPEG and EPEG, three to measure PEP, EEG, AREG, FIEG, SN and three to measure PBEG (see Appendix 1). 3.3. Sample characteristics Descriptive statistics were used to obtain a general profile of the study participants. Table 1shows the socioeconomic variables of the sample, such as gender, age, educational level, occupation and individual monthly income. Table 2 Sample characteristics Details of respondents Frequency (s) n = 315 Percentage (%) Gender Male 199 63.17 Female 116 36.83 Ethnic group Han nationality 198 62.85 Huinationality 83 26.35 The Kazaknationality 21 6.67 The Uyghurnationality 12 3.81 Others 1 0.32 Age 18 ~ 30 2 0.64 31 ~ 40 26 8.25 41 ~ 50 94 29.84 51 ~ 60 121 38.41 >60 72 22.86 Education Primary school 152 48.26 Junior middle school 144 45.71 Senior high school /technical secondary school 16 5.08 Undergraduate college /college degree 3 0.95 University or above 0 0 Health condition Very good 66 20.95 better 164 52.07 general 59 18.73 ratherpoor 23 7.3 Verypoor 3 0.95 Agricultural skills training yes 142 45.08 no 173 54.92 Distance from the town(km) <3 54 17.14 3 ~ 6 52 16.51 7 ~ 10 64 20.32 11 ~ 14 66 20.95 ≥ 15 79 25.08 Family size (person) 1 ~ 2 49 15.56 3 ~ 4 142 45.08 5 ~ 6 110 34.92 7 ~ 8 9 2.86 ≥ 9 5 1.59 Household per capita annual income (ten thousand yuan) ≤ 0.5 12 3.81 >0.5 ~ 1 111 35.24 >1 ~ 1.5 79 25.08 >1.5 ~ 2 68 21.58 >2 45 14.29 Area of cultivated land under operation (mu) 20 ~ 30 47 14.92 ≥ 30 ~ 40 43 13.65 >40 ~ 50 34 10.8 ≥ 50 59 18.73 Quality of cultivatedland Very good 25 7.94 Be better 113 35.87 In general 136 43.17 Beinferior 35 11.11 Verybad 6 1.91 Village cadre/villagerepresentative Yes 51 16.19 No 264 83.81 Data sources: survey and questionnaires Table 2 shows the basic characteristics of the sample data. The proportion of male respondents is slightly higherat 63.17%;this reflects the social reality of male dominance in the rural areas of northern China. Of the farmers surveyed, 62.85% were Han Chinese,26.35% were Hui Chinese and only 6.67% and 3.81% were Kazak Chinese and Uyghur respectively. The surveyed farmers are mostly(91.11%) over 41 years old,indicating that farmers engaged in agriculture are mainly middle-aged and older people. The health status of the surveyed farmers was mostly relatively good and very good(73.02%), indicating that the health status of the surveyed farmers was in good condition. About half of the farmers surveyed had participatedin agricultural training ( 45.08%). The distance between the residences of the surveyed farmers and their cities is almost evenly distributed in all distance segments, indicating that the samples are well representative. The family size of the surveyed farmers was mostly 3–4 persons (45.08%). The annual per capita income of the surveyed farmers is mainly 0.5–15,000 yuan(60.32%), indicating that the annual per capita income of most of the surveyed farmers is at a medium level. Most households (28.57) have between 10 and 20 mu of cultivated land, followed by households with more than 50 mu(18).A relatively high proportion (43.17%)was accounted for by farmers with average quality of cultivated land,35.87by farmers with good quality of cultivated land and 13.02 by farmers with poor or very poor quality of cultivated land,indicating that the surveyed farmers were not very satisfied with the quality of cultivated land. The proportion of farming families with village heads or village representatives is 16.19%, indicating that the proportion of politically engaged farmers in the sample is not very high and most of them are ordinary farmers. Table 3 shows the basic characteristics of the respondents' participation behaviourregarding environmental governance. Table 3 Farmers’ participation behavior in ecological governance Indicators Item Code item mean participation behaviour of ecological governance (PBEG) PBEG1 Changes infertiliser application rate per mu in your farmland in recent 3 years: □ A lot more □ A little more □ No change □ A little less □ A lot less 3.438 PBEG2 Changes of pesticide application rate per mu in your home in recent 3 years: □ A lot more □ A little more = 2 □ No change = 3 □ A little less-4 □ A lot less = 5 4.162 PBEG3 Whether you have adopted soil improvement measures (such as planting green manure, improving farmingpractices and applying soil amendments, etc.)□never-1 □ rarely = 2 □ timely = 3 □ often = 4 □ completely = 5 3.384 As shown in Table 3 , the analysis of farmers’ participation behaviour in ecological governance reveals notable changes in fertiliser and pesticide use and the adoption of soil improvement measures over the past three years. The results demonstrate that while farmers have shown moderate reductions in fertiliser application rates, with a mean score of 3.438, there has been a more substantial decline in pesticide use, as evidenced by a higher mean score of 4.162. This indicates an increased awareness or willingness to address the environmental impacts of pesticides. In contrast, adopting soil improvement practices, including green manure sowing or soil amendments, remains relatively limited, with a mean score of 3.384. This suggests that while some farmers are incorporating sustainable practices, many fail to fully engage with these methods, which can be attributed to various barriers, including lack of technical knowledge and resource constraints. 3.4. Data analysis SPSS22.0 is used for the measurement paths using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), which makes it possible to analyse the structure of a data set and the relationship between factors and measured variables. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses put forward. SEM is a set of integrated multivariate techniques used to explain multiple interactions between several latent variables. It has been widely used in the social sciences, particularly in the psychological literature(Byrne, 2016 & Wu, 2010 ). In fields as diverse as environmental psychology (Grob, 1995 ), agriculture(Bayard & Jolly, 2007 ), occupational exposure (Davis et al., 2007 ), and risk perception (Sparrevik, Ellen, & Duijn, 2011 ), SEM has been adopted to investigate environmental sustainability and pro-environmental behaviour. Covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM) and partial least squares SEM (PLS-SEM) are usually applied in studies, and they are complementary rather than competitive (Marcoulides & Saunders, 2006 ).Compared to CB-SEM, PLS-SEM is better suited to analysing complex cause-effect relationships between several latent variables (Sarstedt, Hair, Ringle, Thiele, & Gudergan, 2016 ). Moreover, Hair et al. (Hair, Ringle, & Sarstedt, 2011 )suggested that PLS-SEM is the preferred choice when research seeks to discover causal relationships with unknown potential variables that influence people's multidimensional behaviour and intentions. The SmartPLS3.0 software package was used to conduct the SEM estimation in this study. 4. Results First, in the exploratory factor analysis, 7 common factors are extracted, and the rotation converges after 7 iterations. The experiments are repeated with 35 items, and items with a factor loading value of less than 0.5 are eliminated. Finally, seven common factors were extracted, including intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG), perceived ease of participation (PEP), perception of the effectiveness of ecological governance (EPEG), emotions in participating in ecological governance (EEG), awareness of the rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance (AREG), functional identification of ecological governance (FIEG) and social norms (SN), with a KMO value of 0.826, which passed the test at a significance level of 0.001and explained 74.975% of the variance. The factor loading value of each observed variable is greater than 0.5, and each index has good combinatorial validity. The reliability and validity of the scale were further tested using SmartPLS3.0 software. Table 4 ConfirmatoryFactor Analysis Factors Item Code item mean Value of factor loading Cronbach's α CR AVE IPEG Intention to participate in ecologicalgovernance IPEG1 I am willing to use biological pesticides instead of chemical pesticides to reduce agricultural ecological environmental pollution 4.362 0.892 0.904 0.933 0.776 IPEG2 I am willing to recycle agricultural waste to protect the ecological environment of farmland 4.41 0.845 IPEG3 I am willing to use organic fertiliser instead of chemical fertiliser to reduce the harm to the soil 4.349 0.827 IPEG4 If soil fertility declines, are you willing to use soil remediation to restore fertility 4.359 0.822 PEP Perceived Ease of Performing to Participation PEP1 It is easy to report ecological environmental problems or governance effectsto the local government or village cadres 3.914 0.908 0.754 0.859 0.676 PEP2 It is easy for you to participate in the decision-making process of ecological and environmental governance in your village 4.159 0.877 PEP3 It is easy for you to monitor and report behaviors that damage the environment and affect public health 4.248 0.875 EPEG Effectiveness perception of ecological governance EPEG1 Ecological environment management can reduce soil erosion and prevent land desertification 4.489 0.842 0.832 0.887 0.663 EPEG2 Ecological environment governance can improve the quality of water, soil, air and biological environment 4.530 0.827 EPEG3 Ecological environment governance helps to develop ecological agriculture and increase agricultural income 3.962 0.635 EPEG4 Ecological environmental governance helps to improve the quality of agricultural products 4.381 0.621 EEG Emotion of ecological governance EEG1 You will feel guilty if you use too much fertiliser 4.162 0.874 0.867 0.918 0.789 EEG2 You will feel guilty if you do not take soil remediation measures 4.070 0.856 EEG3 You will feel guilty if you throw away farm waste, such as pesticide bottles or discarded agricultural film, 4.232 0.790 AREG Awareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance AREG1 Villagers have the right to participate in the decision-making of rural ecological environment governance 4.235 0.826 0.84 0.903 0.757 AREG2 Villagers have the right to protect the ecological environment from destruction 4.457 0.81 AREG3 Villagers are the main body of rural areas, and the improvement of rural ecological environment quality cannot be separated from the participation of villagers 4.565 0.658 FIEG Function identification of ecological governance FIEG1 Recycling agricultural waste can improve environmental problems (pesticide bottles, fertiliser bags, waste agricultural film, etc.) 4.435 0.819 0.785 0.875 0.701 FIEG2 The use of soil remediation measures can improve the quality of farmland (e.g. planting green manure, improving farming practices, etc.) 4.356 0.783 FIEG3 Excessive application of chemical fertiliser will pollute the ecological environment 4.578 0.701 SN social norms SN1 Media (TV, radio, Internet, etc.) encourages villagers to participate in ecological environmental governance actively 4.121 0.817 0.732 0.842 0.644 SN2 Relatives and friends actively participate in the governance of the ecological environment 4.289 0.762 SN3 Village cadres call on villagers to actively participate in the governance of the ecological environment 4.244 0.571 The SmartPLS3.0 software was used to test the reliability and validity of the scale. As shown in Table 4 , Cronbach's alpha (α coefficient for short) of each latent variable was greater than 0.7, indicating good internal consistency between the variables, and the AVE value of each latent variable was greater than 0.6, with a minimum value of 0.644. The measurement model has good convergence validity. According to Table 5 , the square root of the AVE value is greater than the correlation coefficient with other latent variables, and there is no co-linearity between the latent variables, so the discriminant validity of this scale is very good. Table 5 Results of the discriminant validity test CR AVE EPEG AREG EEG PEP FIEG IPEG SN EPEG 0.887 0.663 0.814 AREG 0.903 0.757 0.581 0.87 EEG 0.918 0.789 0.196 0.241 0.888 PEP 0.859 0.676 0.629 0.384 0.641 0.822 FIEG 0.875 0.701 0.292 0.311 0.458 0.408 0.837 IPEG 0.933 0.776 0.257 0.466 0.411 0.253 0.444 0.881 SN 0.842 0.644 0.333 0.348 0.377 0.482 0.164 0.166 0.803 The PLS method (bootstrapping) in the SmartPLS3.0 software is used to calculate the results, as shown in Table 6 . It is assumed that the T-value statistics of H1, H2 and H4 are all greater than 1.96, the P-value is less than 0.001, and the path coefficients are 0.221, 0.383 and 0.247, respectively, indicating that the emotionality of ecological governance (EEG), awareness of the rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance (AREG) and function identification of ecological governance (FIEG) have significant positive effects on the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). It is assumed that the statistical T-value of H3 is less than 1.96 at 1.407, the path coefficient is -0.081 and the p -value is greater than 0.05, which fails the test. Environmental perception of governance effectiveness (EPEG) has no significant influence on participation in environmental governance (IPEG). Assuming that the path coefficient of H5 is 0.244, the T-value is statistically 5.207,and the p -value is less than 0.001, the intention to participate in environmental governance(IPEG) has a significant positive effect on participation behaviour in environmental governance(PBEG). The path coefficients of IPEG for perceived ease of participation (PEP) and social norm (SN) are 0.253 (T = 4.044, P = 0.000) and 0.166 (T = 2.332, P = 0.02), respectively. The path coefficients of perceived ease of participation(PEP) and social norm (SN) on the participation behaviour of environmental governance(PBEG) are 0.55 (T = 10.753, P = 0.000) and 0.085 (T = 1.704, P = 0.088), indicating that perceived ease of participation(PEP) has a significant mediation effect, and the statistical T-value of social norm is less than 1.96. If the p -value is greater than 0.05, the mediation effect fails the test. Table 6 Hypothesis testing results Researchhypothesis Path of influence pathcoefficient meanvalue standard deviation T P Result H1 EEG→IPEG 0.221 0.223 0.054 4.097 0.000*** accepted H2 AREG→IPEG 0.383 0.375 0.07 5.468 0.000*** accepted H3 EPEG→IPEG -0.081 -0.074 0.058 1.407 0.160 rejected H4 FIEG→IPEG 0.247 0.250 0.062 3.980 0.000*** accepted H5 IPEG→PBEG 0.244 0.245 0.047 5.207 0.000*** accepted ***refer tosignificant when p<0.001 Bootstrapping was used to test the mediating effect of social norms and accessibility of participation, and the VAF value (ratio of indirect effect to total effect) was used for assessment. If the VAF value was below 20%, there was no mediating effect; if the VAF value was between 20% and 80%, there was a partial mediating effect; and if the VAF value was above 80%, there was a full mediating effect. As shown in Table 7 , the z-scoreof perceived ease of participation (PEP) is greater than 1.96, the P-scoreis less than 0.001, and the VAF score is 34.92 (partially mediating), indicating that perceived ease of participation (PEP) plays an important mediating role in the paths of intention to participate in environmental governance (IPEG) and participation behaviour in environmental governance(PBEG). The z value of social norm (SN) is 1.31 (< 1.96), the P value is greater than 0.1 and the VAF value is 3.52, indicating that social norm (SN) does not play a mediating role in the paths of intention to participate in environmental governance(IPEG) and participation behaviour of environmental governance(PBEG). Table 7 Mediatingeffect test Hypotheses Mediatingeffect z Indirecteffects Total effects VAF P Test result H6 IPEG→EP→PBEG 4.033 0.139 0.398 34.92 0.00** Partialmediation H7 IPEG→SN→PBEG 1.31 0.014 0.398 3.52 0.19 No mediation 注: *P<0.05, **P<0.01。 5. Discussion This study contributes to the existing literature by confirming the influence of well-established behavioural factors such as emotional factors and ease of participation, while raising the question of the extent to which social norms and the perceived effectiveness of governance in fragmented rural contexts can be generalised. The results presented show the interrelationship between psychological, structural and social variables that influence farmers’ engagement in ecological management in dryland areas in northwest China. The results indicate a strong correlation between emotional attachment and farmers' intentions, which is consistent with Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour (TPB) that emphasises the influence of attitudes on the formation of intentions. Studies by Burton and Wilson༆Hart suggest that conservation orientated motivations are increasingly important factors influencing farmer participation worldwide (Burton, 2004 & Wilson & Hart, 2001 ). However, our findings extend this notion by demonstrating that emotional factors are particularly relevant in arid regions, where environmental fragility increases farmers’ sensitivity to ecological degradation. This context-specific insight highlights the increased role of emotions in motivating green behaviours when faced with extreme environmental conditions. This finding also suggests that policies that capitalise on emotional connections could serve to improve participation levels. The finding regarding perceived ease of participation is consistent with previous research findings byFalconer and Schaub et al. (Falconer, 2000 & Schaub et al., 2023 ). These studies identify transaction costs and procedural complexity as primary barriers to engagement in agri-environmental programs. Our findings contribute to this body of research by highlighting the importance of accessibility, in terms of both signalling mechanisms and participation processes, in transforming intentions into actionable behaviour. These findings suggest that policymakers in Northwest China should prioritise simplifying their governance frameworks toaddress the aforementioned logistical barriers effectively. In contrast to research conducted in collectivist contexts, where social expectations strongly shape individual behaviour, this study found a limited influence of social norms. To illustrate, studies conducted by de Krom and Strydom demonstrated the critical role of social norms in promoting collaborative conduct in the context of agri-environmental governance (Krom & M., 2017 & W. Strydom, Puren, & Drewes, 2018 ). However, our findings are consistent with those of Terry and O'Leary, who posit that individualistic decision-making contexts, prevalent in regions with fragmented rural communities, reduce the impact of social norms (Terry & O'Leary, 1995 ). This discrepancy highlights the need to incorporate cultural and community structures into the design of participatory governance models. Furthermore, the perceived effectiveness of governance was not found to significantly influence farmers' intentions, which differs from the findings of studies conducted in Europe and North America, where perceived benefits are central to participation decisions (McGurk et al., 2020 & Mishra & Khanal, 2013 ). This divergence may be attributed to the presence of significant economic and technical barriers in Northwest China, which may influence perceptions of effectiveness in the long run. The region's distinctive challenges, such as long investment timelines and limited access to cutting-edge technologies, diminish the short-term significance of perceived effectiveness, as Liao et al. observed in similar development contexts (Liao et al., 2024 ). 6. Conclusion This study highlights the key factors that determine farmers' participation in ecological governance in the drylands of northwest China, where fragile ecosystems and socio-economic vulnerabilities intersect. Using structural equation modelling, we found that emotional attachment to the environment, awareness of ecological responsibility and perceived ease of participation significantly influence farmers' intentions and behaviours. However, the limited influence of perceived administrative efficiency and social norms highlights the challenges associated with economic constraints, long-term benefits and the individualised nature of participation decisions. The findings of this research support the argument advanced by Hobbs and Yazdanpanah et al. on the need for policy interventions tailored to the specific context in question (Hobbs, 2021 & Yazdanpanah et al., 2022 ). The implementation of emotional engagement campaigns, the streamlining of participation procedures and financial incentives could be an effective way to overcome the identified barriers. In addition, the limited role of social norms and perceived effectiveness emphasises the need to promote trust in government institutions and demonstrate clear short-term benefits to motivate participation. Several practical implications emerge from the findings. Policy makers should focus on fostering emotional and practical engagement by organising awareness-raising campaigns, simplifying participation procedures and offering visible incentives such as financial support or technical assistance. Structural barriers such as high costs and limited access to innovative agricultural technologies need to be addressed to encourage greater participation. In addition, improving local governance structures to better incorporate farmer feedback and making the tangible benefits of environmental policies clearer could further encourage participation. Future research should look more closely at the temporal dynamics of participation by conducting longitudinal studies to examine how intentions and behaviours evolve. Comparative studies across different geographical and cultural contexts would also be valuable to assess the generalisability of these findings. Exploring the role of new technologies and innovative policy frameworks in facilitating farmer participation could identify new ways to strengthen environmental policy. Although this study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing farmers' participation in ecological governance in the drylands of northwest China, some limitations should be considered. First, due to its cross-sectional design, the study is limited in its ability to capture changes in farmers' intentions and behaviours over time. Longitudinal studies could provide a deeper understanding of how these factors evolve, particularly in response to policy changes or environmental improvements. Second, the study focuses on a specific region - Changji City, Xinjiang - which, while representative of dryland agricultural areas, may not fully capture the diversity of environmental, economic and social conditions of other regions. Future studies could broaden the geographical scope to include comparisons with other arid, semi-arid or non-arid regions to better understand the contextual factors influencing participation. Third, while structural equation modelling can effectively analyse complex relationships, it relies on survey data that can be influenced by self-report. Supplementing this approach with qualitative methods, such as interviews or participant observation, could provide a deeper insight into farmers' motivations and barriers. Declarations Author Contributions L.D. and G.M. wrote the main manuscript text. Q.L. Build econometric models and draw charts. J.Y. supervises, writes, reviews and edits. M.C. and Y.W. analyze data and review. All authors have read and agreed to the publication version of the manuscript. Funding Statements This project, “Research on tourism consumption measurement and regulation mechanism of ecosystem services in Tianshan World Natural Heritage protected area in Xinjiang” was funded by the Regional Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 41961046); and supported by China Scholarship Council (Grant No. 202008650008). Author Corresponding author: Juan Yao, Email: [email protected] first co-author: Liangquan Dong, [email protected] ; Giulia Maesano [email protected] Declaration of Interest Statement The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, author- ship, and/or publication of this article. Liangquan Dong ，Giulia Maesano Qianna Li , Juan Yao , Maurizio Canavari , Yizhe Wang Acknowledgements: All participants voluntarily took part in the questionnaire survey with informed consent prior to participation. The research procedures complied with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.There were no cases involving minors or individuals with disabilities. No incentives were offered that could unduly influence participants’ decisions. Data A vailability S tatement The datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to confidentiality requirements associated with field survey data collected under specific research agreements. Data are however available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Liangquan Dong, Giulia Maesano, Qianna Li, Juan Yao, Maurizio Canavari, Yizhe Wang Ethics Approval and Consent to Participate This study invites farmers in Changji area of China to fill out a questionnaire survey on the relevant situation of rural governance. The research protocol was reviewed and approved by the Xinjiang Agricultural University. 1. A voluntary informed consent signed by the study participants has been obtained before the study is conducted. The content and purpose of the research are within the scope of normative informed consent. Already explained in the methods section. 2. This study uses anonymized information data to conduct research. 3. This research does not cause harm to human body, and does not involve sensitive personal information or commercial interests. China Xinjiang Agricultural University does not have an ethics review unit, and this study complies with the basic principles of the Helsinki Declaration and meets the ethical exemption requirements of the "Regulations on Ethical Review of Research Involving Human Life Sciences and Medical Research" promulgated by China, and can be exempted from ethical review. I will upload the research questionnaire and show the relevant content. Thank you for your support. I have translated the scope of knowledge in the questionnaire into English, so as to better show it to you。If you need to modify it again, please contact me. Thank you. References Ajzen, I. From intentions to actions: A theory of planned behavior (Springer, 1985). Ajzen, I. The Theory of Planned Behavior. Organ. Behav. Hum Decis. Process. 50 (2), 179–211. 10.1016/0749-5978(91)90020-T (1991). Austin, E. et al. Empirical models of farmer behaviour using psychological, social and economic variables. Part I: linear modelling. Agric. Syst. 58 (2), 203–224. 10.1016/S0308-521X(98)00066-3 (1998). Bayard, B. & Jolly, C. Environmental behavior structure and socio-economic conditions of hillside farmers: A multiple-group structural equation modeling approach. Ecol. Econ. 62 (3–4), 433–440. 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2006.07.004 (2007). Boksberger, P., Dolnicar, S., Laesser, C. & Randle, M. Self-congruity theory: To what extent does it hold in tourism? Journal of Travel Research, 50 (4), 454–464. doi: 1177/0047287510368164 (2011). Bridoux, F. & Stoelhorst, J. W. Stakeholder governance: Solving the collective action problems in joint value creation. Acad. Manage. Rev. 47 (2), 214–236. 10.5465/amr.2019.0441 (2022). Burton, R. J. F. Reconceptualising the ‘behavioural approach’ in agricultural studies: a socio-psychological perspective. J. Rural Stud. 20 (3), 359–371. 10.1016/j.jrurstud.2003.12.001 (2004). Byrne, B. M. Structural Equation Modeling With AMOS: Basic Concepts, Applications, and Programming (Routledge, 2016). Davis, M. et al. Occupational exposure to volatile organic compounds and aldehydes in the US trucking industry. Environ. Sci. Technol. 41 (20), 7152–7158. 10.1021/es071041z (2007). Defrancesco, E., Gatto, P., Runge, F. & Trestini, S. Factors Affecting Farmers? Participation in Agri-environmental Measures: A Northern Italian Perspective. J. Agric. Econ. 59 (1), 114–131. 10.1111/j.1477-9552.2007.00134.x (2007). Dhawi, F. & Aleidan, M. M. Oasis agriculture revitalization and carbon sequestration for climate-resilient communities. Front. Agron. 6 (6), 1386671. 10.3389/fagro.2024.1386671 (2024). DUYanqiang, Nuojia, L. & Ligen, C. An Analysis of Farmers' Collective Inaction in Rural Environmental Governance and Its Turning Logic. China Rural Survey (2), 81–96 (2021). Falconer, K. Farm-level constraints on agri-environmental scheme participation: a transactional perspective. J. rural Stud. 16 (3), 379–394. 10.1016/S0743-0167(99)00066-2 (2000). Gao, Z., Wang, S. & Gu, J. Public participation in smart-city governance: a qualitative content analysis of public comments in urban China. Sustainability 12 (20), 8605. 10.3390/su12208605 (2020). Gemtou, M. et al. Farmers’ Transition to Climate-Smart Agriculture: A Systematic Review of the Decision-Making Factors Affecting Adoption. Sustainability 16 (7), 2828. (2024). 10.3390/su16072828 Geoff, A. & Wilson, K. H. Financial imperative or conservation concern? EU farmers' motivations for participation in voluntary agri-environmental schemes. Environ. Plann. A . 32 (12), 2161–2185. 10.1068/a3311 (2000). Goodwin, M. The governance of rural areas: some emerging research issues and agendas. J. rural Stud. 14 (1), 5–12. 10.1016/S0743-0167(97)00043-0 (1998). Gould, C. Diversity and democracy: representing differences. Democracy difference: Contesting boundaries political , 171–186 (1996). Grob, A. A structural model of environmental attitudes and behaviour. J. Environ. Psychol. 15 (3), 209–220. 10.1016/0272-4944(95)90004-7 (1995). Hair, J. F., Ringle, C. M. & Sarstedt, M. PLS-SEM: Indeed a silver bullet. J. Mark. theory Pract. 19 (2), 139–152. 10.2753/MTP1069-6679190202 (2011). Han, X. P. Rural environmental governance should not allow farmers to stand aside. Newsletter About Work Rural Areas (8), 48–48 (2014). Hobbs, S. Influences on farmer decision-making behaviour considering a payment for ecosystem services scheme: farmers’ and scheme facilitators’ perceptions (University of Gloucestershire, 2021). Huayin, L. Responsive Participation: an Analysis of the Interaction Between Township Governments and Farmers in Rural Reform. Chin. Public. Adm. (9), 8. 10.19735/j.issn.1006-0863.2020.09.19 (2020). Hui, E. C., Chen, T., Lang, W. & Ou, Y. Urban community regeneration and community vitality revitalization through participatory planning in China. Cities 110 , 103072. 10.1016/j.cities.2020.103072 (2021). Jing, H. & Shuanghua, C. Environmental Pollution Abatement and Economic Growth: Model and Evidence from China. Nankai Economic Stud. 1 , 11. 10.14116/j.nkes.2011.01.002 (2011). Kong, X. & Lu, Y. Five Models for Constructing Ecologically Livable Beautiful Countryside and Countermeasures– Inspiration from Surveys in 5 Provinces and 20 Villages. Economic Rev. J. 1 , 19–28. 10.16528/j.cnki.22-1054/f.201901019 (2019). Krom & M., M. P. M Farmer participation in agri-environmental schemes: Regionalisation and the role of bridging social capital. Land. Use Policy . 60 , 352–361. 10.1016/j.landusepol.2016.10.026 (2017). Li, X., Zhang, F., Hui, E. C. & Lang, W. Collaborative workshop and community participation: A new approach to urban regeneration in China. Cities 102 , 102743. 10.1016/j.cities.2020.102743 (2020). Li, Y. & Wu, F. The transformation of regional governance in China: The rescaling of statehood. Progress Plann. 78 (2), 55–99. 10.1016/j.progress.2012.03.001 (2012). Liao, C., Ross, H., Jones, N. & Palaniappan, G. System lacks systems thinking: Top-down organization and actor agency in China's agricultural extension system. Syst. Res. Behav. Sci. 41 (1), 82–99. 10.1002/sres.2943 (2024). Liu, K., Ge, S., Wu, X. & Li, D. Evaluation and Planning Application of Oasis Habitat Stability in Arid Regions Based on the PPSD Model: A Case Study of Wensu County, Xinjiang. (2024). 10.31223/X59T3M Lovan, W. R., Murray, M. & Shaffer, R. Participatory governance in a changing world Participatory Governance: Planning, Conflict Mediation and Public Decision Making in Civil Society . (2004). Lovan, W. R., Murray, M. & Shaffer, R. Participatory governance: planning, conflict mediation and public decision-making in civil society (Routledge, 2017). Marcoulides, G. A. & Saunders, C. (eds) Editor's comments: PLS: a silver bullet? MIS quarterly , iii-ix (2006). McGurk, E., Hynes, S. & Thorne, F. Participation in agri-environmental schemes: A contingent valuation study of farmers in Ireland. J. Environ. Manage. 262 , 110243. 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110243 (2020). Meng, F., Chen, H., Yu, Z., Xiao, W. & Tan, Y. What drives farmers to participate in rural environmental governance? evidence from villages in sandu town, eastern china. Sustainability 14 (6), 3394. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063394 (2022). Mills, J. et al. Engaging farmers in environmental management through a better understanding of behaviour. Agric. Hum. Values . 34 , 283–299. 10.1007/s10460-016-9705-4 (2017). Mishra, A. K. & Khanal, A. R. Is participation in agri-environmental programs affected by liquidity and solvency? Land. Use Policy . 35 , 163–170. 10.1016/j.landusepol.2013.05.015 (2013). Mondal, S. & Palit, D. Challenges in natural resource management for ecological sustainability Natural Resources Conservation and Advances for Sustainability pp. 29–59 (Elsevier, 2022). Newig, J. & Fritsch, O. Environmental governance: participatory, multi-level–and effective? Environ. Policy Gov. 19 (3), 197–214. 10.1002/eet.509 (2009). Pavlis, E. S., Terkenli, T. S., Kristensen, S. B. P., Busck, A. G. & Cosor, G. L. Patterns of agri-environmental scheme participation in Europe: Indicative trends from selected case studies. Land. Use Policy . 57 , 800–812. 10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.09.024 (2016). Raggi, M., Viaggi, D., Bartolini, F. & Furlan, A. The role of policy priorities and targeting in the spatial location of participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes in Emilia-Romagna (Italy). Land. Use Policy . 47 , 78–89. 10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.03.005 (2015). Raymond, C. M., Bieling, C., Fagerholm, N., Martin-Lopez, B. & Plieninger, T. The farmer as a landscape steward: comparing local understandings of landscape stewardship, landscape values, and land management actions. Ambio 45 , 173–184. 10.1007/s13280-015-0694-0 (2016). Runhaar, H. A. et al. Promoting nature conservation by Dutch farmers: a governance perspective. Int. J. Agric. Sustain. 15 (3), 264–281. 10.1080/14735903.2016.1232015 (2017). Sarstedt, M., Hair, J. F., Ringle, C. M., Thiele, K. O. & Gudergan, S. P. Estimation issues with PLS and CBSEM: Where the bias lies! J. Bus. Res. 69 (10), 3998–4010. 10.1016/j.jbusres.2016.06.007 (2016). Saxby, H., Gkartzios, M. & Scott, K. Farming on the Edge’: Wellbeing and Participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes. Sociologia Ruralis . 58 (2), 392–411. 10.1111/soru.12180 (2018). Schaub, S. et al. The role of behavioural factors and opportunity costs in farmers' participation in voluntary agri-environmental schemes: A systematic review. J. Agric. Econ. 10.1111/1477-9552.12538 (2023). Shi, J., Xu, K. & Duan, K. Investigating the intention to participate in environmental governance during urban-rural integrated development process in the Yangtze River Delta Region. Environ. Sci. Policy . 128 , 132–141. 10.1016/j.envsci.2021.11.008 (2022). Si, H., Shen, L., Liu, W. & Wu, G. Uncovering people’s mask-saving intentions and behaviors in the post-COVID-19 period: Evidence from China. Sustainable Cities Soc. 65 , 102626. 10.1016/j.scs.2020.102626 (2021). Sparrevik, M., Ellen, G. J. & Duijn, M. Evaluation of factors affecting stakeholder risk perception of contaminated sediment disposal in (ACS, 2011). Strydom, W., Puren, K. & Drewes, E. Exploring theoretical trends in placemaking: Towards new perspectives in spatial planning. J. Place Manage. Dev. 11 (2), 165–180. 10.1108/JPMD-11-2017-0113 (2018). Strydom, W. F. Applying the theory of planned behavior to recycling behavior in South Africa. Recycling 3 (3), 43. 10.3390/recycling3030043 (2018). Teff-Seker, Y., Segre, H., Eizenberg, E., Orenstein, D. E. & Shwartz, A. Factors influencing farmer and resident willingness to adopt an agri-environmental scheme in Israel. J. Environ. Manage. 302 , 114066. 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114066 (2022). Tengö, M., Austin, B. J., Danielsen, F. & Fernández-Llamazares, Á. Creating synergies between citizen science and Indigenous and local knowledge. BioScience 71 (5), 503–518. 10.1093/biosci/biab023 (2021). Terry, D. J. & O'Leary, J. E. The theory of planned behaviour: The effects of perceived behavioural control and self-efficacy. Br. J. Soc. Psychol. 34 (2), 199–220. 10.1111/j.2044-8309.1995.tb01058.x (1995). Turner, N. C., Molyneux, N., Yang, S., Xiong, Y. C. & Siddique, K. H. Climate change in south-west Australia and north-west China: challenges and opportunities for crop production. Crop Pasture Sci. 62 (6), 445–456. 10.1071/CP10372/1836-0947/11/060445 (2011). Uthes, S. & Matzdorf, B. Studies on agri-environmental measures: a survey of the literature. Environ. Manage. 51 (1), 251–266. 10.1007/s00267-012-9959-6 (2013). Vanslembrouck, I., Huylenbroeck, G. & Verbeke, W. Determinants of the Willingness of Belgian Farmers to Participate in Agri-environmental Measures. J. Agric. Econ. 53 (3), 489–511. 10.1111/j.1477-9552.2002.tb00034.x (2002). Wąs, A. et al. In search of factors determining the participation of farmers in agri-environmental schemes–Does only money matter in Poland? Land. Use Policy . 101 , 105190. 10.1016/j.landusepol.2020.105190 (2021). Wei, Y. et al. Farmers' perception of environmental degradation and their adoption of improved management practices in Alxa, China. Land Degrad. Dev. 20 (3), 336–346. 10.1002/ldr.922 (2009). Wheeler, R. et al. Collaboration and incentives–Achieving environmental benefits at large spatial scales through environmental land management. Summary report , 1–29 (2021). Wilson, G. A. & Hart, K. Farmer Participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes: Towards Conservation-Oriented Thinking? Sociologia Ruralis . 41 (2), 254–274. 10.1111/1467-9523.00181 (2001). Wu, M. Structural Equation Modeling: Operations and Applications of AMOS (2nd Edition) : Chongqing University Press. (2010). Wynne-Jones, S. Understanding farmer co-operation: Exploring practices of social relatedness and emergent affects. J. Rural Stud. 53 , 259–268. 10.1016/j.jrurstud.2017.02.012 (2017). Xin-min, Z., Wei, J. & Wen-ming, C. Study on the Willingness of ༲ural ༲esidents to Participate in the Environmental Governance of Human Set tlements Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior: Taking Xinjiang as an Example. J. Ecol. Rural Environ. 37 (4), 9. 10.19741/j.issn.1673-4831.2020.0560 (2021). Xue, J. et al. Oasification: An unable evasive process in fighting against desertification for the sustainable development of arid and semiarid regions of China. Catena 179 , 197–209. 10.1016/j.catena.2019.03.02 (2019). Xue, X., Liao, J., Hsing, Y., Huang, C. & Liu, F. Policies, land use, and water resource management in an arid oasis ecosystem. Environ. Manage. 55 , 1036–1051. 10.1007/s00267-015-0451-y (2015). Yanchun. Government’s responsibility in rural environmental governance: from the perspective of metagovernance. China Popul. Resour. Environ. 31 (2), 9. 10.12062 /cpre.20200927 (2021). Yazdanpanah, M. et al. What factors contribute to conversion to organic farming? Consideration of the Health Belief Model in relation to the uptake of organic farming by Iranian farmers. J. Environ. Planning Manage. 65 (5), 907–929. 10.1080/09640568.2021.1917348 (2022). Yin, Y. et al. Driving mechanism for farmers' participation in improving farmland ecosystem: Evidence from China. J. Clean. Prod. 380 , 134895. 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.134895 (2022). Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files dataandoutput.zip Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Reviewers agreed at journal 10 Apr, 2026 Reviews received at journal 07 Apr, 2026 Reviews received at journal 07 Apr, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 06 Apr, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 05 Apr, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 20 Mar, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 17 Mar, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 29 Jan, 2026 Submission checks completed at journal 27 Jan, 2026 First submitted to journal 27 Jan, 2026 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8406467","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":607439016,"identity":"d1b5d1a8-7ac6-485b-9c95-bb2bd54cc5ed","order_by":0,"name":"Liangquan Dong","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Xinjiang Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Liangquan","middleName":"","lastName":"Dong","suffix":""},{"id":607439021,"identity":"dd3b026b-c01a-4aa3-be91-f7c3688edd3f","order_by":1,"name":"Giulia Maesano","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Giulia","middleName":"","lastName":"Maesano","suffix":""},{"id":607439026,"identity":"22f41d15-4584-44b0-8fbb-8dbaeb7c12f9","order_by":2,"name":"Qianna Li","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Neijiang Normal University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Qianna","middleName":"","lastName":"Li","suffix":""},{"id":607439029,"identity":"c5907f54-4238-4785-973f-915949b383c6","order_by":3,"name":"Juan Yao","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAAzklEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBACxmbmA8Y/eGzqGdsbiNTC3N6WUMwgk5bA3HOASC3sPWcMPjPYHEpgn5FApBbeGTmGmwtyDuTxzny88QZDjU00QS2SM9KKjWecuVMsOTut2ILhWFpuAyEthjOStxnw9jxj3Dg7x0yCseEwYS32NxLMf/D+O8y4/+YZIrUw9hwxMObhOZzYOIOHWC3AQDacwZNmzNgD9EsCMX4BRaXBBx4bOcb2wxtvfKixIawFGRhIJJCiHKKFVB2jYBSMglEwMgAAIrZFdaxGLyIAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Xinjiang Agricultural University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Juan","middleName":"","lastName":"Yao","suffix":""},{"id":607439033,"identity":"e797213c-1fd9-42aa-bd04-d47498b43d7d","order_by":4,"name":"Yizhe Wang","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Southwest Forestry University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Yizhe","middleName":"","lastName":"Wang","suffix":""},{"id":607439035,"identity":"fc638f82-0faf-4546-9e43-da1423fe950b","order_by":5,"name":"Maurizio Canavari","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Maurizio","middleName":"","lastName":"Canavari","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-12-19 15:53:15","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":104912718,"identity":"91c81652-8f29-4160-9d33-d50093e2189d","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-18 15:34:58","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":79126,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003ePartial least squares path modelling (PLS-PM) of hypothesis\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8406467/v1/3c24c006c557a5c9f7570ed5.png"},{"id":105033955,"identity":"adb37c2b-2180-40ee-b48d-9f280c71a8b4","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-20 07:22:16","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1390674,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8406467/v1/08f5cffe-c13f-4d52-ac51-cc609936d70a.pdf"},{"id":104912719,"identity":"7d300910-dc63-4ddd-8e30-73bcb92d9b0f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-18 15:34:58","extension":"zip","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":106221,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"dataandoutput.zip","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8406467/v1/e547463b96c4fd81ea1e660c.zip"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Modelling Farmer’s Intention-behavior to Participate in Ecological Governance in the Northwest China Arid Region","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe concept of ecological governance is increasingly recognised as an essential aspect of sustainable development, especially in geographic areas where there is a convergence between ecological vulnerability and economic dependence on natural resources (Mondal \u0026amp; Palit, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArid regions in northwestern China face extraordinary challenges, including water scarcity, soil erosion, desertification, and ecological degradation resulting from intensive agricultural practices (Turner, Molyneux, Yang, Xiong, \u0026amp; Siddique, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; J. Xue et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).These problems are further exacerbated by an over-reliance on oasis agriculture, as shown in the study byLiu et al (Liu, Ge, Wu, \u0026amp; Li, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Land degradation and water depletion constantly threaten oases, which are essential for agricultural and human survival(X. Xue, Liao, Hsing, Huang, \u0026amp; Liu, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e).This makes effective ecological governance important and indispensable for long-term environmental and economic stability (Dhawi \u0026amp; Aleidan, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). As the primary custodians of rural landscapes, farmers play a central role in conservation and restoration initiatives (Wei et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e). The agricultural practices employed by these communities exert considerable influence on a range of critical aspects of ecosystem health, including soil quality, water resources and biodiversity (Raymond, Bieling, Fagerholm, Martin-Lopez, \u0026amp; Plieninger, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, their active participation in ecological governance is crucial to ensure alignment between policy objectives and implementation on the ground (Yin et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Despite the importance of their role, farmers\u0026rsquo; participation in ecological governance remains limited (Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017 \u0026amp; Mills et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Runhaar et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Wynne-Jones, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e). Regarding the promotion of participatory governance, the gap between the desire for reform and actual implementation varies from country to country, andcan arguably be interpreted as an expression of the prevailing institutional and political complexity(Lovan, Murray, \u0026amp; Shaffer, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2004\u003c/span\u003e). European agri-environmental schemes (AES) have been criticised for exacerbating rather than denying the conflicting relationships between agricultural production and environmental production and for assuming rather than persuading people\u0026apos;swillingness to bear the costs ofagri-environmental change(Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017). Policymakershave recognisedthat understanding the response of individual stakeholders to policy interventions must increase if they are to achieve the success of interventions to bring about widespread change in agriculture. These interventions, by which policymakersseek solutions to the problems of agricultural surpluses and budget overruns that also address social and environmental concerns (Burton, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2004\u003c/span\u003e), require a means of anticipating farmers\u0026apos;motivation to comply with new approaches (Austin et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1998\u003c/span\u003e). Public opinion plays an important role in cooperative environmental policy, as public preferences are of great importance in formulating policies by government agencies. Public participation is considereda necessary approach to social issues (W. F. Strydom, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), and effective suggestions from individuals will directly impact the policy-making process of environmental governance (Shi, Xu, \u0026amp; Duan, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).However, previous studies have paid little attention to public participation in collaborative environmental governance during urban-rural integrated development(Gao, Wang, \u0026amp; Gu, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite China\u0026apos;s growing emphasis on participatory governance frameworks, these initiatives have predominantly been shaped by a top-down approach that often fails to acknowledge farmers\u0026apos; diverse motivations, challenges, and circumstances (Y. Li \u0026amp; Wu, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Liao, Ross, Jones, \u0026amp; Palaniappan, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). The use of participatory methodologies has proven to be an effective approach for integrating local knowledge and improving policy outcomes on a global scale (Lovan, Murray, \u0026amp; Shaffer, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; W. F. Strydom, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Teng\u0026ouml;, Austin, Danielsen, \u0026amp; Fern\u0026aacute;ndez-Llamazares, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). However, in the context of rural governance in China, such models often fail to consider the socio-psychological and structural factors that influence the level of farmer engagement (Yazdanpanah et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). It is critical to understand these factors, as research has highlighted the importance of addressing behavioural drivers, including psychological, economic, and social dimensions (Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017). Existing literature rarely considers how emotional attachment, social norms, and perceived ease of participation influence farmers\u0026apos; decisions in this distinctive context.There is a clear need for in-depth investigation to uncover behavioural drivers and barriers in this region, which relies on top-down governance frameworks and has limited farmer participation in green initiatives. Such knowledge is essential for designing effective policies that facilitate participation and are adapted to local contexts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe theory of planned behaviour (TPB) has been widely applied to explore participation in environmental activities.This theory highlights behavioural attitude, social norms, and perceived behavioural control as decisive factors (Ajzen, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1985\u003c/span\u003e). However, while the TPB has been applied globally to investigate environmental behaviours, its application in the arid regions of northwest China remains limited. Moreover, studies have revealed discrepancies in the effectiveness of these factors. To illustrate, social norms often have limited influence in individualistic decision-making contexts (Terry \u0026amp; O\u0026apos;Leary, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1995\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, perceived governance effectiveness may not directly translate into engagement when economic or structural constraints are high (Falconer, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Shi et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite these insights, there remain gaps in understanding how these factors interact in the unique context of Northwest China. Farmers in this region face greater environmental and economic pressures, yet their participation behaviour remains understudied, particularly concerning the interaction between intention, ease of participation, and normative influences (Gemtou et al., \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). The present study addresses this gap in knowledge by exploring the psychological, social and structural factors that are distinctive to this context.This paper investigates the internal psychological mechanism of promoting farmers\u0026apos; active participation in local ecological environment governance in the real background and addresses the following research questions:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1. What structural factors affect farmers\u0026apos; intention and behaviour to participate in ecological governance in arid farming regions?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2. How do these factors interact to influence participation pathways?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3. What role do intention, perceived ease of participation, and social norms play in shaping ecological governance behaviours?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to address these questions,byanalysing survey data collected from 315 farmers in Changji City, Xinjiang, in January 2022. The arid region in Northwest China, especially Changji City in Xinjiang, was chosen because fragile ecosystems with problems such as scarce water resources, desertification, and soil erosion characterize it. These challenges are exacerbated by intensive oasis agriculture, making it a critical area for ecological governance efforts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SEM approach allows for examining complex relationships among latent variables, including emotional attachment to ecological governance, awareness of responsibilities, perceived ease of participation, and social norms. By integrating psychological, social, and contextual factors, the model reveals both direct and mediated pathways influencing farmers\u0026apos; participation. This approach provides a holistic understanding of the dynamics at play and offers actionable insights for improving rural environmental governance strategies.The findings of this study have the potential to inform governance strategies not only for China\u0026apos;s arid regions, but also for other areas facing similar ecological and socioeconomic challenges\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe paper is organised into six sections: the first section discusses the importance of ecological governance in arid regions of Northwest China and defines the research questions. The second section presents the Literature Review and definition of hypotheses using behavioural theories. The Data and Methods are presented in section three. The fourth sectionpresents the results, identifying factors such as emotional and practical considerations that influence participation. Section five presents the Discussion of results. Finally, the last section is dedicated to the conclusions.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Literature Review and Research Hypotheses","content":"\u003cp\u003eParticipatory development as an efficient style of social governance has spread to different communities in many countries (Hui, Chen, Lang, \u0026amp; Ou, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; X. Li, Zhang, Hui, \u0026amp; Lang, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Newig \u0026amp; Fritsch, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e). Taking differences in public life seriously requires a radical expansion of opportunities for participation not only in public discourse, but also in the institutions of economic, social and political life (Gould, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1996\u003c/span\u003e). Governance is perhaps better interpreted as \u0026ldquo;power to\u0026rdquo; \u0026ldquo; rather than \"power over\u0026rdquo;, whereby stakeholders seek to gain agency by pooling their resources, skills and goals in a sustainable partnership (Bridoux, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Goodwin, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1998\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnother key dynamic affecting the governance process is the endeavour to make public policy more responsive to citizens' needs through citizen participation mechanisms (Lovan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2004\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAgri-environmental schemes (AES) are gradually being implemented to encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly (Boksberger, 2011).There is a large number of studies on farmers\u0026rsquo; willingness, motivation, decision-making, etc. to participate in AES, and farm size, environmental sentiment, trust, etc. are common topics of discussion(Teff-Seker, Segre, Eizenberg, Orenstein, \u0026amp; Shwartz, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR53\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Wheeler et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR61\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).Behavioral factors and opportunity costs in Australia, Europe and North America(Schaub et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e), the expected impactonagriculturalproduction and the farmers' environmental attitude of farmers in Belgium, are factors that influence the acceptance of agri-environmental measures policies. Farm size, and previous experience of farmers orneighbouring farmers with agri-environmental schemesalsoaffectfarmers\u0026rsquo;decision to participate(Vanslembrouck, Huylenbroeck, \u0026amp; Verbeke, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR58\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e).The main motives for participating in the AES were economic and personal satisfaction. The motives for participating in AES were location-specific, reflecting differences in culture, farmingsystems, natural environment and landscapes(Pavlis, Terkenli, Kristensen, Busck, \u0026amp; Cosor, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). Thegrowingimportance of conservation-oriented motivesfor AES participation across Europe impliesthe\u0026ldquo;new hypothesis\u0026rdquo; that environmental concernsareoftenasimportantasthe financial needtoparticipate(Hobbs, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Further comparative research on more complex indicatorsofprogramsuccess is needed,particularly on factors influencingfarmers' incomes, farmers'environmental attitudes, and the environmental quality of the countryside targeted by AESs(Geoff A Wilson, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParticipation rates are important for assessing the success of the AES. Higher compensation payments could increase the participation rate of some farmers who have hardly participated so far(McGurk, Hynes, \u0026amp; Thorne, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe concrete participation of most farmersin the regionalised AES would bring about a long-term and environmentally friendly change in farmers' behaviourif farmers were able to establish social links by gaining the recognition and cooperation of other regional actors for their agri-environmental work (Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchers examine aspects of farmers\u0026rsquo; well-beingconcerning their participation in the AESand discuss how farmers\u0026rsquo; social activity, identity, status and sense of place are enhanced by participation in the CFP and how this might support their continued work in the AES(Mills et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e).Furthermore, recognising the potential of AES participation to improve farmerwelfare can demonstrate the added value of the AES and strengthen the case for AES funding when the UK leaves the European Union(Saxby, Gkartzios, \u0026amp; Scott, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003es et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn previous research, most empirical studies have not provided decision-relevant results, as the role of farmers and the available AEM budget have been ignored. Economic approaches tend to make only rough hypotheses about ecological and economic processes and are not suitable fordecision-making. The competent authorities rarely make meaningful use of decisionsupport tools based on these disciplinary results and rarely consider system factors and environmental conditions simultaneously at high spatial resolution.In the existing research, most empirical studies have failed to provide results relevant to decision-making, as the role of farmers and the available AEM budget is ignored. Economic approaches tend to make only rough hypotheses about ecological and economic processes and are unsuitable fordecision-making. Competent authorities rarely make meaningful use ofdecision-supporttools based on these disciplinary results and rarely consider system factors and environmental conditions simultaneously at high spatial resolution(Uthes \u0026amp; Matzdorf, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR57\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegarding the factors influencing farmers\u0026rsquo; participation in environmental policy, the researchers mainly discuss psychological, ecological and social factors.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe reasons for the farmers\u0026rsquo; decision-making process are analysed using two multinomial models. The results of one model indicate that farmers\u0026rsquo; participation isconstrained by labour-intensive farming practices and a high dependence of household income on agricultural activity, while farmers\u0026rsquo; willingness to participate isencouraged by previous experience, easy-to-implement environmentally friendly farming practices and adequate compensation for additional costs.The results of the other model show that, in addition to income factors, the farm's future,relationships with neighboring farmers, and their views on environmentally friendly practices significantly influence the adoption of agri-environmental measures.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFarmers\u0026rsquo; attitudes and beliefs and local behavioural influences must be considered when designing and communicating agri-environmental measures (Defrancesco, Gatto, Runge, \u0026amp; Trestini, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBehavioural attitudes, social norms and perceived behavioural control are the fundamental and decisive determinants in the theory of planned behaviour, which assumes that people\u0026rsquo;s specific behavioursdepend on profound considerations(Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1985\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe more confidence people have in their ability to participate in collaborative governance and the fewer potential obstacles they anticipate, the stronger the intention will be activated(Si, Shen, Liu, \u0026amp; Wu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAjzen has described PBC(perceived behavioural control)as the person\u0026rsquo;s belief that, despite the possible performance of the behaviour, the controlling factors can be either internal (e.g. abilities, skills, willpower, constraints) or external (e.g. time, opportunity, dependence on others)(Ajzen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1985\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough these indicators are crucial for the evaluation of the programs, they neglect the attitude of farmers\u0026ndash; or, more precisely, the possible changes in attitude brought about by the programs\u0026thinsp;\u0026minus;\u0026thinsp;as a decisive indicator of the success of the AES(Wilson \u0026amp; Hart, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR62\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe researchers assessed the utility of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), data collection obtained measures of attitudes, norms, intentions, perceived control and self-efficacy, and actual behaviour. The results showed that separate measures of self-efficacy and perceived behavioural control should be adopted in TPB, which distinguished the effects of perceived behavioural control and self-efficacy on behavioural intentions and actual behavior (Terry \u0026amp; O'Leary, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1995\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe decision of farmers to participate is central to the achievement of policy objectives, and recent research has found that such schemes potentially havehigh transaction costs for both the state and farmers (Falconer, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe transaction costs incurred by farmers not only reduce the programs' cost-effectiveness but can also represent a significant barrier to participation in the programs, with the opposite effect on the supply of nature conservation goods. At the level of the individual participant, the development of one-stop-shops for agri-environmental measures in the Member States for all schemes would help to ensure that transaction cost savings save on the overheads of applying for different schemes with different objectives and a more synthetic, clearer approach to participation is adopted.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe longer-term value of farmer networks and capacitybuilding for agri-environmental management is also important (Falconer, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe determinants of the spatial location of participation in the AES are reviewed. In particular, it is essential to understand the interaction between structural determinants, prioritisation criteria and spillover effects in driving participation. The results indicate that both the prioritisation criteria and the spatial dimension significantly influenced participation(Raggi, Viaggi, Bartolini, \u0026amp; Furlan, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFinancial constraintsaffect the economic well-being of farming families in both the short and long term, as well as production efficiency and technology adoption. Both liquidity and ability to pay negatively impact participation in agri-environmental programmes such as the Conservation Reserve Programme (CRP) and Environmental Quality Incentives Programmes (EQIPs) in the US, while access to the internet plays an important role in farmers'decisions to participate in CRP and EQIP,and farmers just starting out are more likely to participate in EQIP (Mishra \u0026amp; Khanal, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere is still a lack ofconceptual and empirical studies on the importance of social capital in the adaptation of farmers\u0026rsquo; environmental behavior (Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participation of rural people in environmental governance in the less developed areas of northwest China has received little attention, and most studies focus on the general willingness of farmers to participate, but do not distinguish between the forms of farmers' willingness to participate and only examine the willingness to participate based on \"labour and labour power\" or the willingnesstopay based on\"equityparticipation and payment\", ignoring the correlation between the two forms(Xin-min, Wei, \u0026amp; Wen-ming, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR65\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Based on the theoretical and empirical literature, this paper formulates hypotheses for farmers' participation in environmental governance. To avoid verbosity, the indicators in the table are presented in capital letters. See Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e below for details.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u0026ndash;Intention to participate in ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG \u0026ndash;Emotion of ecological governance participation\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u0026ndash;Awareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance participation\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u0026ndash;Effectiveness perception of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u0026ndash;Function identification of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePBEG \u0026ndash; Participation behaviour of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e PEP \u0026ndash;Perceived ease of performing to participation\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN - Social norms\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHypotheses and paths\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHypotheses\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePath\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH1. Emotion of ecological governance (EEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH2. Awareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance (AREG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH3.Effectiveness perception of ecological governance (EPEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH4. Function identification of ecological governance (FIEG) positively affects the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH5. Intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) positively affects ecological governance's (PBEG) participation behaviour.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH6. Perceived ease of performing to participation (PEP) moderated by intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) affects the participation behaviour of ecological governance (PBEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP*IPEG\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH7. Social norms (SN) moderated by intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG) affects the participation behaviour of ecological governance (PBEG)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN*IPEG\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3. Data and Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Context of research\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe dryland area in northwest China is a typical agricultural oasis area, and the special water, soil, light and heat conditions place higher demands on the environmental competence and participation intentions and behaviours of local agricultural subjects in ecological governance. The characteristics of farmers' natural \"presence\" determine that farmers are the practical subjects of rural ecological environment governance (Han, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), and the level of the governance of the rural environment is largely determined by the breadth and depth of farmers' participation (Meng, 2022). As an important base for agriculture and animal husbandry, a \"leisure tourism backyard\", one of Xinjiang's flagship counties and towns, Changji Town has taken active and effective measures to improve the living environment and protect agroecology. Ensuring a good rural ecological environment in Changji Town and other regions plays a key role in the survival and development of people in arid areas and the process of agricultural modernisation in oases.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBehind the rapid economic growth lies high energy consumption and high pollutant emissions, which are placing an enormous burden on China's ecological environment (Jing \u0026amp; Shuanghua, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRural areas are not spared either, and the ecological problems of rural areas are increasingly coming to the fore. In the past, deforestation, land clearing, overgrazing and other man-made damage have led to soil degradation, vegetation destruction and other ecological problems, as well as a large amount of carelessly piled household waste and domestic sewage discharged at will. The excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, the improper treatment of agricultural waste, etc. have polluted rural households and agricultural production (Yanchun, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR68\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe main position of farmers in rural areas determines the provision and efficient management of all public goods in rural areas, which must ultimately be implemented by farmers (DUYanqiang, Nuojia, \u0026amp; Ligen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAlthough farmers are included in the environmental policy system, they still face many difficulties in participating in environmental governance in rural areas. At the government level, the top-down organisational model and the government's responsiveness affect the level of farmers' participation. At the village level, the change of rural social structure, labour migration, and the merging of natural villages aggravate the phenomenon of farmers' collective inactivity. At the individual level of farmers, the lack of interest linkage mechanism and the increasing heterogeneity of farmers affect farmers' participation in environmental governance (DUYanqiang et al., 2021 \u0026amp; Huayin, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Kong \u0026amp; Lu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Data collection\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research team completed the survey in January 2022. This survey consists of two phases. In March 2021, in the first exploratory phase, municipal governments in the study area were visited first to understand the environmental governance of each municipality, to provide a basis for designing this research plan. The second phase is the formal survey phase, in which the research team conducted a random survey of farmer households in the study area in January 2022. To ensure the accuracy and validity of the survey data, 320 questionnaires were distributed in the form of face-to-face interviews. Five invalid questionnaires were excluded from the data collection, and 315 valid questionnaires were received, corresponding to an effective rate of 98%.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire design focused on identifying suitable reflective indicators to measure latent variables (intent to participate in ecological governance, perceived ease of participation, perceived effectiveness of ecological governance, emotions of participating in ecological governance, awareness of rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance, identification of the function of ecological governance, behaviour of participating in ecological governance, social norms) among farmers in the arid region of Northwest China.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire consisted of three main sections. The first section covered the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents and collected information on gender, ethnic group, age, education, health status, agricultural training, distance from city (km), family size (person), annual per capita income of family (10,000 yuan), cultivated area (mu), quality of cultivated land, village cadres/village representatives.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe second section measures farmers\u0026rsquo; behaviour in shaping the rural environment through a table with 3 items measuring the rate of fertilizer and pesticide application, soil improvement measures, and farmers\u0026rsquo; environmental behaviour. The measurement scale for each behavior is a five-component scale, and the specific indicators and items are listed in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe third section aims to measure factors affecting farmers\u0026rsquo; participation in rural ecological governance. The section originally contained 27 items measuring variables such as intentions, emotions, perceived ease, effectiveness, responsibility and awareness related to environmental governance, measured with a Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5). Four items adopted from the literature were used to measure IPEG and EPEG, three to measure PEP, EEG, AREG, FIEG, SN and three to measure PBEG (see Appendix 1).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.3. Sample characteristics\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescriptive statistics were used to obtain a general profile of the study participants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;1shows the socioeconomic variables of the sample, such as gender, age, educational level, occupation and individual monthly income.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSample characteristics\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDetails of respondents\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency (s)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003en\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;315\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e199\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e63.17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e116\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36.83\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEthnic group\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHan nationality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e198\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e62.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHuinationality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e83\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26.35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Kazaknationality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Uyghurnationality\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOthers\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;30\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;40\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e29.84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e51\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e121\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e38.41\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e22.86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEducation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrimary school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e152\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e48.26\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJunior middle school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e144\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45.71\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSenior high school /technical secondary school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUndergraduate college /college degree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity or above\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHealth condition\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVery good\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ebetter\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e164\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003egeneral\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.73\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eratherpoor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVerypoor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAgricultural skills training\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eyes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e142\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eno\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e173\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e54.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDistance from the town(km)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e54\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.51\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFamily size (person)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e49\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e142\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e110\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHousehold per capita annual income (ten thousand yuan)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026le;\u0026thinsp;0.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;0.5\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e111\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35.24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;1\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;1.5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;1.5\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21.58\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.29\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"5\" rowspan=\"6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eArea of cultivated land under operation (mu)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;10\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;20\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.57\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;20\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;30\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;30\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;40\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.65\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;40\u0026thinsp;~\u0026thinsp;50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;50\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.73\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuality of cultivatedland\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVery good\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBe better\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e113\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35.87\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn general\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e136\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e43.17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeinferior\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVerybad\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.91\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVillage cadre/villagerepresentative\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e51\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e264\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e83.81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eData sources: survey and questionnaires\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e shows the basic characteristics of the sample data. The proportion of male respondents is slightly higherat 63.17%;this reflects the social reality of male dominance in the rural areas of northern China. Of the farmers surveyed, 62.85% were Han Chinese,26.35% were Hui Chinese and only 6.67% and 3.81% were Kazak Chinese and Uyghur respectively. The surveyed farmers are mostly(91.11%) over 41 years old,indicating that farmers engaged in agriculture are mainly middle-aged and older people. The health status of the surveyed farmers was mostly relatively good and very good(73.02%), indicating that the health status of the surveyed farmers was in good condition. About half of the farmers surveyed had participatedin agricultural training ( 45.08%). The distance between the residences of the surveyed farmers and their cities is almost evenly distributed in all distance segments, indicating that the samples are well representative. The family size of the surveyed farmers was mostly 3\u0026ndash;4 persons (45.08%). The annual per capita income of the surveyed farmers is mainly 0.5\u0026ndash;15,000 yuan(60.32%), indicating that the annual per capita income of most of the surveyed farmers is at a medium level. Most households (28.57) have between 10 and 20 mu of cultivated land, followed by households with more than 50 mu(18).A relatively high proportion (43.17%)was accounted for by farmers with average quality of cultivated land,35.87by farmers with good quality of cultivated land and 13.02 by farmers with poor or very poor quality of cultivated land,indicating that the surveyed farmers were not very satisfied with the quality of cultivated land. The proportion of farming families with village heads or village representatives is 16.19%, indicating that the proportion of politically engaged farmers in the sample is not very high and most of them are ordinary farmers.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e shows the basic characteristics of the respondents' participation behaviourregarding environmental governance.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFarmers\u0026rsquo; participation behavior in ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndicators\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eItem Code\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eitem\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eparticipation behaviour of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(PBEG)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePBEG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChanges infertiliser application rate per mu in your farmland in recent 3 years: □ A lot more □ A little more □ No change □ A little less □ A lot less\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.438\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePBEG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChanges of pesticide application rate per mu in your home in recent 3 years: □ A lot more □ A little more\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2 □ No change\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3 □ A little less-4 □ A lot less =\u0026thinsp;5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.162\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePBEG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhether you have adopted soil improvement measures (such as planting green manure, improving farmingpractices and applying soil amendments, etc.)□never-1 □ rarely\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2 □ timely\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3 □ often\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;4 □ completely\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, the analysis of farmers\u0026rsquo; participation behaviour in ecological governance reveals notable changes in fertiliser and pesticide use and the adoption of soil improvement measures over the past three years. The results demonstrate that while farmers have shown moderate reductions in fertiliser application rates, with a mean score of 3.438, there has been a more substantial decline in pesticide use, as evidenced by a higher mean score of 4.162. This indicates an increased awareness or willingness to address the environmental impacts of pesticides. In contrast, adopting soil improvement practices, including green manure sowing or soil amendments, remains relatively limited, with a mean score of 3.384. This suggests that while some farmers are incorporating sustainable practices, many fail to fully engage with these methods, which can be attributed to various barriers, including lack of technical knowledge and resource constraints.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.4. Data analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSPSS22.0 is used for the measurement paths using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), which makes it possible to analyse the structure of a data set and the relationship between factors and measured variables. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses put forward.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSEM is a set of integrated multivariate techniques used to explain multiple interactions between several latent variables. It has been widely used in the social sciences, particularly in the psychological literature(Byrne, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Wu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR63\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn fields as diverse as environmental psychology (Grob, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1995\u003c/span\u003e), agriculture(Bayard \u0026amp; Jolly, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e), occupational exposure (Davis et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e), and risk perception (Sparrevik, Ellen, \u0026amp; Duijn, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e), SEM has been adopted to investigate environmental sustainability and pro-environmental behaviour. Covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM) and partial least squares SEM (PLS-SEM) are usually applied in studies, and they are complementary rather than competitive (Marcoulides \u0026amp; Saunders, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2006\u003c/span\u003e).Compared to CB-SEM, PLS-SEM is better suited to analysing complex cause-effect relationships between several latent variables (Sarstedt, Hair, Ringle, Thiele, \u0026amp; Gudergan, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, Hair et al. (Hair, Ringle, \u0026amp; Sarstedt, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e)suggested that PLS-SEM is the preferred choice when research seeks to discover causal relationships with unknown potential variables that influence people's multidimensional behaviour and intentions. The SmartPLS3.0 software package was used to conduct the SEM estimation in this study.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eFirst, in the exploratory factor analysis, 7 common factors are extracted, and the rotation converges after 7 iterations. The experiments are repeated with 35 items, and items with a factor loading value of less than 0.5 are eliminated. Finally, seven common factors were extracted, including intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG), perceived ease of participation (PEP), perception of the effectiveness of ecological governance (EPEG), emotions in participating in ecological governance (EEG), awareness of the rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance (AREG), functional identification of ecological governance (FIEG) and social norms (SN), with a KMO value of 0.826, which passed the test at a significance level of 0.001and explained 74.975% of the variance. The factor loading value of each observed variable is greater than 0.5, and each index has good combinatorial validity. The reliability and validity of the scale were further tested using SmartPLS3.0 software.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eConfirmatoryFactor Analysis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFactors\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eItem Code\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eitem\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emean\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eValue of factor loading\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCronbach's α\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAVE\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIntention to participate in ecologicalgovernance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eI am willing to use biological pesticides instead of chemical pesticides to reduce agricultural ecological environmental pollution\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.362\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.892\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.904\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.933\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.776\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eI am willing to recycle agricultural waste to protect the ecological environment of farmland\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.41\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.845\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eI am willing to use organic fertiliser instead of chemical fertiliser to reduce the harm to the soil\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.349\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.827\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf soil fertility declines, are you willing to use soil remediation to restore fertility\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.359\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.822\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePerceived Ease of Performing to Participation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt is easy to report ecological environmental problems or governance effectsto the local government or village cadres\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.914\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.908\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.754\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.859\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.676\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt is easy for you to participate in the decision-making process of ecological and environmental governance in your village\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.159\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.877\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt is easy for you to monitor and report behaviors that damage the environment and affect public health\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.248\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.875\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEffectiveness perception of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEcological environment management can reduce soil erosion and prevent land desertification\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.489\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.842\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.832\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.887\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.663\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEcological environment governance can improve the quality of water, soil, air and biological environment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.530\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.827\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEcological environment governance helps to develop ecological agriculture and increase agricultural income\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.962\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.635\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEcological environmental governance helps to improve the quality of agricultural products\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.381\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.621\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmotion of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYou will feel guilty if you use too much fertiliser\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.162\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.874\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.867\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.918\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.789\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYou will feel guilty if you do not take soil remediation measures\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.070\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.856\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYou will feel guilty if you throw away farm waste, such as pesticide bottles or discarded agricultural film,\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.232\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.790\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAwareness of the rights and responsibilities of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVillagers have the right to participate in the decision-making of rural ecological environment governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.235\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.826\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.903\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.757\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVillagers have the right to protect the ecological environment from destruction\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.457\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVillagers are the main body of rural areas, and the improvement of rural ecological environment quality cannot be separated from the participation of villagers\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.565\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.658\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFunction identification of ecological governance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRecycling agricultural waste can improve environmental problems (pesticide bottles, fertiliser bags, waste agricultural film, etc.)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.435\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.819\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.785\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.875\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.701\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe use of soil remediation measures can improve the quality of farmland (e.g. planting green manure, improving farming practices, etc.)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.356\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.783\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcessive application of chemical fertiliser will pollute the ecological environment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.578\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.701\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN social norms\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedia (TV, radio, Internet, etc.) encourages villagers to participate in ecological environmental governance actively\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.121\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.817\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.732\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.842\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.644\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelatives and friends actively participate in the governance of the ecological environment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.289\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.762\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVillage cadres call on villagers to actively participate in the governance of the ecological environment\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.244\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.571\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe SmartPLS3.0 software was used to test the reliability and validity of the scale. As shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, Cronbach's alpha (α coefficient for short) of each latent variable was greater than 0.7, indicating good internal consistency between the variables, and the AVE value of each latent variable was greater than 0.6, with a minimum value of 0.644. The measurement model has good convergence validity. According to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, the square root of the AVE value is greater than the correlation coefficient with other latent variables, and there is no co-linearity between the latent variables, so the discriminant validity of this scale is very good.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResults of the discriminant validity test\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"10\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c10\" colnum=\"10\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCR\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAVE\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.887\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.663\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.814\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.903\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.757\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.581\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.87\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.918\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.789\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.196\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.241\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.888\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePEP\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.859\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.676\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.629\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.641\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.822\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.875\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.701\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.292\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.311\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.458\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.408\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.837\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.933\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.776\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.257\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.466\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.411\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.253\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.444\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.881\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSN\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.842\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.644\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.333\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.348\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.377\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.482\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.164\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.166\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c10\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.803\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe PLS method (bootstrapping) in the SmartPLS3.0 software is used to calculate the results, as shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e. It is assumed that the T-value statistics of H1, H2 and H4 are all greater than 1.96, the P-value is less than 0.001, and the path coefficients are 0.221, 0.383 and 0.247, respectively, indicating that the emotionality of ecological governance (EEG), awareness of the rights and responsibilities of participating in ecological governance (AREG) and function identification of ecological governance (FIEG) have significant positive effects on the intention to participate in ecological governance (IPEG). It is assumed that the statistical T-value of H3 is less than 1.96 at 1.407, the path coefficient is -0.081 and the \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e-value is greater than 0.05, which fails the test. Environmental perception of governance effectiveness (EPEG) has no significant influence on participation in environmental governance (IPEG). Assuming that the path coefficient of H5 is 0.244, the T-value is statistically 5.207,and the \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e-value is less than 0.001, the intention to participate in environmental governance(IPEG) has a significant positive effect on participation behaviour in environmental governance(PBEG). The path coefficients of IPEG for perceived ease of participation (PEP) and social norm (SN) are 0.253 (T\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;4.044, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.000) and 0.166 (T\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2.332, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.02), respectively. The path coefficients of perceived ease of participation(PEP) and social norm (SN) on the participation behaviour of environmental governance(PBEG) are 0.55 (T\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;10.753, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.000) and 0.085 (T\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.704, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.088), indicating that perceived ease of participation(PEP) has a significant mediation effect, and the statistical T-value of social norm is less than 1.96. If the \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e-value is greater than 0.05, the mediation effect fails the test.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHypothesis testing results\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResearchhypothesis\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePath of influence\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003epathcoefficient\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emeanvalue\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003estandard deviation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eT\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResult\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.221\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.223\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.054\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.097\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000***\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eaccepted\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAREG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.383\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.375\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.468\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000***\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eaccepted\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEPEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-0.081\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-0.074\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.058\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.407\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.160\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003erejected\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFIEG\u0026rarr;IPEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.247\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.250\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.062\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.980\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000***\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eaccepted\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH5\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.244\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.245\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.047\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.207\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000***\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eaccepted\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"8\"\u003e***refer tosignificant when p\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBootstrapping was used to test the mediating effect of social norms and accessibility of participation, and the VAF value (ratio of indirect effect to total effect) was used for assessment. If the VAF value was below 20%, there was no mediating effect; if the VAF value was between 20% and 80%, there was a partial mediating effect; and if the VAF value was above 80%, there was a full mediating effect. As shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, the z-scoreof perceived ease of participation (PEP) is greater than 1.96, the P-scoreis less than 0.001, and the VAF score is 34.92 (partially mediating), indicating that perceived ease of participation (PEP) plays an important mediating role in the paths of intention to participate in environmental governance (IPEG) and participation behaviour in environmental governance(PBEG). The z value of social norm (SN) is 1.31 (\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;1.96), the P value is greater than 0.1 and the VAF value is 3.52, indicating that social norm (SN) does not play a mediating role in the paths of intention to participate in environmental governance(IPEG) and participation behaviour of environmental governance(PBEG).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab7\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 7\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediatingeffect test\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"9\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c9\" colnum=\"9\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHypotheses\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMediatingeffect\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ez\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIndirecteffects\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTotal effects\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVAF\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTest result\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u0026rarr;EP\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.033\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.139\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.398\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.00**\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePartialmediation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eH7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIPEG\u0026rarr;SN\u0026rarr;PBEG\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.014\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.398\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.52\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c9\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo mediation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"9\"\u003e注: *P\u0026lt;0.05, **P\u0026lt;0.01。\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study contributes to the existing literature by confirming the influence of well-established behavioural factors such as emotional factors and ease of participation, while raising the question of the extent to which social norms and the perceived effectiveness of governance in fragmented rural contexts can be generalised.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results presented show the interrelationship between psychological, structural and social variables that influence farmers\u0026rsquo; engagement in ecological management in dryland areas in northwest China.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results indicate a strong correlation between emotional attachment and farmers' intentions, which is consistent with Ajzen\u0026rsquo;s theory of planned behaviour (TPB) that emphasises the influence of attitudes on the formation of intentions. Studies by Burton and Wilson༆Hart suggest that conservation orientated motivations are increasingly important factors influencing farmer participation worldwide (Burton, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2004\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Wilson \u0026amp; Hart, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR62\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e). However, our findings extend this notion by demonstrating that emotional factors are particularly relevant in arid regions, where environmental fragility increases farmers\u0026rsquo; sensitivity to ecological degradation. This context-specific insight highlights the increased role of emotions in motivating green behaviours when faced with extreme environmental conditions. This finding also suggests that policies that capitalise on emotional connections could serve to improve participation levels.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe finding regarding perceived ease of participation is consistent with previous research findings byFalconer and Schaub et al. (Falconer, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Schaub et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). These studies identify transaction costs and procedural complexity as primary barriers to engagement in agri-environmental programs. Our findings contribute to this body of research by highlighting the importance of accessibility, in terms of both signalling mechanisms and participation processes, in transforming intentions into actionable behaviour. These findings suggest that policymakers in Northwest China should prioritise simplifying their governance frameworks toaddress the aforementioned logistical barriers effectively.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn contrast to research conducted in collectivist contexts, where social expectations strongly shape individual behaviour, this study found a limited influence of social norms. To illustrate, studies conducted by de Krom and Strydom demonstrated the critical role of social norms in promoting collaborative conduct in the context of agri-environmental governance (Krom \u0026amp; M., 2017 \u0026amp; W. Strydom, Puren, \u0026amp; Drewes, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). However, our findings are consistent with those of Terry and O'Leary, who posit that individualistic decision-making contexts, prevalent in regions with fragmented rural communities, reduce the impact of social norms (Terry \u0026amp; O'Leary, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1995\u003c/span\u003e). This discrepancy highlights the need to incorporate cultural and community structures into the design of participatory governance models. Furthermore, the perceived effectiveness of governance was not found to significantly influence farmers' intentions, which differs from the findings of studies conducted in Europe and North America, where perceived benefits are central to participation decisions (McGurk et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Mishra \u0026amp; Khanal, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). This divergence may be attributed to the presence of significant economic and technical barriers in Northwest China, which may influence perceptions of effectiveness in the long run. The region's distinctive challenges, such as long investment timelines and limited access to cutting-edge technologies, diminish the short-term significance of perceived effectiveness, as Liao et al. observed in similar development contexts (Liao et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"6. Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study highlights the key factors that determine farmers' participation in ecological governance in the drylands of northwest China, where fragile ecosystems and socio-economic vulnerabilities intersect. Using structural equation modelling, we found that emotional attachment to the environment, awareness of ecological responsibility and perceived ease of participation significantly influence farmers' intentions and behaviours. However, the limited influence of perceived administrative efficiency and social norms highlights the challenges associated with economic constraints, long-term benefits and the individualised nature of participation decisions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe findings of this research support the argument advanced by Hobbs and Yazdanpanah et al. on the need for policy interventions tailored to the specific context in question (Hobbs, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e \u0026amp; Yazdanpanah et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR69\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The implementation of emotional engagement campaigns, the streamlining of participation procedures and financial incentives could be an effective way to overcome the identified barriers. In addition, the limited role of social norms and perceived effectiveness emphasises the need to promote trust in government institutions and demonstrate clear short-term benefits to motivate participation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeveral practical implications emerge from the findings. Policy makers should focus on fostering emotional and practical engagement by organising awareness-raising campaigns, simplifying participation procedures and offering visible incentives such as financial support or technical assistance. Structural barriers such as high costs and limited access to innovative agricultural technologies need to be addressed to encourage greater participation. In addition, improving local governance structures to better incorporate farmer feedback and making the tangible benefits of environmental policies clearer could further encourage participation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFuture research should look more closely at the temporal dynamics of participation by conducting longitudinal studies to examine how intentions and behaviours evolve. Comparative studies across different geographical and cultural contexts would also be valuable to assess the generalisability of these findings. Exploring the role of new technologies and innovative policy frameworks in facilitating farmer participation could identify new ways to strengthen environmental policy.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e Although this study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing farmers' participation in ecological governance in the drylands of northwest China, some limitations should be considered. First, due to its cross-sectional design, the study is limited in its ability to capture changes in farmers' intentions and behaviours over time. Longitudinal studies could provide a deeper understanding of how these factors evolve, particularly in response to policy changes or environmental improvements. Second, the study focuses on a specific region - Changji City, Xinjiang - which, while representative of dryland agricultural areas, may not fully capture the diversity of environmental, economic and social conditions of other regions. Future studies could broaden the geographical scope to include comparisons with other arid, semi-arid or non-arid regions to better understand the contextual factors influencing participation. Third, while structural equation modelling can effectively analyse complex relationships, it relies on survey data that can be influenced by self-report. Supplementing this approach with qualitative methods, such as interviews or participant observation, could provide a deeper insight into farmers' motivations and barriers.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor Contributions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eL.D. and G.M. wrote the main manuscript text. Q.L. Build econometric models and draw charts. J.Y. supervises, writes, reviews and edits. M.C. and Y.W. analyze data and review. All authors have read and agreed to the publication version of the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding Statements\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis project, \u0026ldquo;Research on tourism consumption measurement and regulation mechanism of ecosystem services in Tianshan World Natural Heritage protected area in Xinjiang\u0026rdquo; was funded by the Regional Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 41961046); and supported by China Scholarship Council (Grant No. 202008650008).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCorresponding author:\u003c/strong\u003e Juan Yao, Email: [email protected]\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003efirst co-author:\u003c/strong\u003e Liangquan Dong, [email protected]; Giulia Maesano [email protected]\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeclaration of Interest Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, author- ship, and/or publication of this article.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiangquan Dong\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e，Giulia Maesano\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eQianna Li\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e,\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eJuan Yao\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e,\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaurizio Canavari\u003c/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eYizhe Wang\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eAll participants voluntarily took part in the questionnaire survey with informed consent prior to participation. The research procedures complied with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.There were no cases involving minors or individuals with disabilities. No incentives were offered that could unduly influence participants\u0026rsquo; decisions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003evailability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;S\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003etatement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated and analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to confidentiality requirements associated with field survey data collected under specific research agreements. Data are however available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiangquan Dong,\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGiulia Maesano,\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQianna Li,\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJuan Yao,\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaurizio Canavari, Yizhe Wang\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics Approval and Consent to Participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study invites farmers in Changji area of China to fill out a questionnaire survey on the relevant situation of rural governance. The research protocol was reviewed and approved by the Xinjiang Agricultural University.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. A voluntary informed consent signed by the study participants has been obtained before the study is conducted. The content and purpose of the research are within the scope of normative informed consent. Already explained in the methods section.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. This study uses anonymized information data to conduct research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. This research does not cause harm to human body, and does not involve sensitive personal information or commercial interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChina Xinjiang Agricultural University does not have an ethics review unit, and this study complies with the basic principles of the Helsinki Declaration and meets the ethical exemption requirements of the \u0026quot;Regulations on Ethical Review of Research Involving Human Life Sciences and Medical Research\u0026quot; promulgated by China, and can be exempted from ethical review.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI will upload the research questionnaire and show the relevant content. Thank you for your support. I have translated the scope of knowledge in the questionnaire into English, so as to better show it to you。If you need to modify it again, please contact me. Thank you.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAjzen, I. \u003cem\u003eFrom intentions to actions: A theory of planned behavior\u003c/em\u003e (Springer, 1985).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAjzen, I. The Theory of Planned Behavior. \u003cem\u003eOrgan. Behav. Hum Decis. Process.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e50\u003c/b\u003e (2), 179\u0026ndash;211. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/0749-5978(91)90020-T\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/0749-5978(91)90020-T\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (1991).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAustin, E. et al. Empirical models of farmer behaviour using psychological, social and economic variables. Part I: linear modelling. \u003cem\u003eAgric. Syst.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e58\u003c/b\u003e (2), 203\u0026ndash;224. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/S0308-521X(98)00066-3\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/S0308-521X(98)00066-3\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (1998).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBayard, B. \u0026amp; Jolly, C. Environmental behavior structure and socio-economic conditions of hillside farmers: A multiple-group structural equation modeling approach. \u003cem\u003eEcol. Econ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e62\u003c/b\u003e (3\u0026ndash;4), 433\u0026ndash;440. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.ecolecon.2006.07.004\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.ecolecon.2006.07.004\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2007).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBoksberger, P., Dolnicar, S., Laesser, C. \u0026amp; Randle, M. Self-congruity theory: To what extent does it hold in tourism? \u003cem\u003eJournal of Travel Research, 50\u003c/em\u003e(4), 454\u0026ndash;464. doi: 1177/0047287510368164 (2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBridoux, F. \u0026amp; Stoelhorst, J. W. Stakeholder governance: Solving the collective action problems in joint value creation. \u003cem\u003eAcad. Manage. Rev.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e47\u003c/b\u003e (2), 214\u0026ndash;236. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.5465/amr.2019.0441\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.5465/amr.2019.0441\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBurton, R. J. F. Reconceptualising the \u0026lsquo;behavioural approach\u0026rsquo; in agricultural studies: a socio-psychological perspective. \u003cem\u003eJ. Rural Stud.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e20\u003c/b\u003e (3), 359\u0026ndash;371. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jrurstud.2003.12.001\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jrurstud.2003.12.001\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2004).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eByrne, B. M. \u003cem\u003eStructural Equation Modeling With AMOS: Basic Concepts, Applications, and Programming\u003c/em\u003e (Routledge, 2016).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDavis, M. et al. Occupational exposure to volatile organic compounds and aldehydes in the US trucking industry. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Sci. Technol.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e41\u003c/b\u003e (20), 7152\u0026ndash;7158. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1021/es071041z\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1021/es071041z\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2007).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDefrancesco, E., Gatto, P., Runge, F. \u0026amp; Trestini, S. Factors Affecting Farmers? Participation in Agri-environmental Measures: A Northern Italian Perspective. \u003cem\u003eJ. Agric. Econ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e59\u003c/b\u003e (1), 114\u0026ndash;131. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/j.1477-9552.2007.00134.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/j.1477-9552.2007.00134.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2007).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDhawi, F. \u0026amp; Aleidan, M. M. Oasis agriculture revitalization and carbon sequestration for climate-resilient communities. \u003cem\u003eFront. Agron.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e6\u003c/b\u003e (6), 1386671. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3389/fagro.2024.1386671\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3389/fagro.2024.1386671\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2024).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDUYanqiang, Nuojia, L. \u0026amp; Ligen, C. An Analysis of Farmers' Collective Inaction in Rural Environmental Governance and Its Turning Logic. \u003cem\u003eChina Rural Survey\u003c/em\u003e (2), 81\u0026ndash;96 (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFalconer, K. Farm-level constraints on agri-environmental scheme participation: a transactional perspective. \u003cem\u003eJ. rural Stud.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e16\u003c/b\u003e (3), 379\u0026ndash;394. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/S0743-0167(99)00066-2\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/S0743-0167(99)00066-2\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2000).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGao, Z., Wang, S. \u0026amp; Gu, J. Public participation in smart-city governance: a qualitative content analysis of public comments in urban China. \u003cem\u003eSustainability\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e12\u003c/b\u003e (20), 8605. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/su12208605\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/su12208605\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGemtou, M. et al. Farmers\u0026rsquo; Transition to Climate-Smart Agriculture: A Systematic Review of the Decision-Making Factors Affecting Adoption. \u003cem\u003eSustainability 16\u003c/em\u003e(7), 2828. (2024). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/su16072828\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/su16072828\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGeoff, A. \u0026amp; Wilson, K. H. Financial imperative or conservation concern? EU farmers' motivations for participation in voluntary agri-environmental schemes. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Plann. A\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e32\u003c/b\u003e (12), 2161\u0026ndash;2185. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1068/a3311\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1068/a3311\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2000).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGoodwin, M. The governance of rural areas: some emerging research issues and agendas. \u003cem\u003eJ. rural Stud.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e14\u003c/b\u003e (1), 5\u0026ndash;12. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/S0743-0167(97)00043-0\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/S0743-0167(97)00043-0\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (1998).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGould, C. Diversity and democracy: representing differences. \u003cem\u003eDemocracy difference: Contesting boundaries political\u003c/em\u003e, 171\u0026ndash;186 (1996).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrob, A. A structural model of environmental attitudes and behaviour. \u003cem\u003eJ. Environ. Psychol.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e15\u003c/b\u003e (3), 209\u0026ndash;220. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/0272-4944(95)90004-7\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/0272-4944(95)90004-7\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (1995).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHair, J. F., Ringle, C. M. \u0026amp; Sarstedt, M. PLS-SEM: Indeed a silver bullet. \u003cem\u003eJ. Mark. theory Pract.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e19\u003c/b\u003e (2), 139\u0026ndash;152. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.2753/MTP1069-6679190202\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.2753/MTP1069-6679190202\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHan, X. P. Rural environmental governance should not allow farmers to stand aside. \u003cem\u003eNewsletter About Work Rural Areas\u003c/em\u003e (8), 48\u0026ndash;48 (2014).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHobbs, S. \u003cem\u003eInfluences on farmer decision-making behaviour considering a payment for ecosystem services scheme: farmers\u0026rsquo; and scheme facilitators\u0026rsquo; perceptions\u003c/em\u003e (University of Gloucestershire, 2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHuayin, L. Responsive Participation: an Analysis of the Interaction Between Township Governments and Farmers in Rural Reform. \u003cem\u003eChin. Public. Adm.\u003c/em\u003e (9), 8. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.19735/j.issn.1006-0863.2020.09.19\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.19735/j.issn.1006-0863.2020.09.19\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHui, E. C., Chen, T., Lang, W. \u0026amp; Ou, Y. Urban community regeneration and community vitality revitalization through participatory planning in China. \u003cem\u003eCities\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e110\u003c/b\u003e, 103072. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.cities.2020.103072\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.cities.2020.103072\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJing, H. \u0026amp; Shuanghua, C. Environmental Pollution Abatement and Economic Growth: Model and Evidence from China. \u003cem\u003eNankai Economic Stud.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e1\u003c/b\u003e, 11. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.14116/j.nkes.2011.01.002\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.14116/j.nkes.2011.01.002\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKong, X. \u0026amp; Lu, Y. Five Models for Constructing Ecologically Livable Beautiful Countryside and Countermeasures\u0026ndash; Inspiration from Surveys in 5 Provinces and 20 Villages. \u003cem\u003eEconomic Rev. J.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e1\u003c/b\u003e, 19\u0026ndash;28. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.16528/j.cnki.22-1054/f.201901019\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.16528/j.cnki.22-1054/f.201901019\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2019).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKrom \u0026amp; M., M. P. M Farmer participation in agri-environmental schemes: Regionalisation and the role of bridging social capital. \u003cem\u003eLand. Use Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e60\u003c/b\u003e, 352\u0026ndash;361. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.landusepol.2016.10.026\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.landusepol.2016.10.026\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2017).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLi, X., Zhang, F., Hui, E. C. \u0026amp; Lang, W. Collaborative workshop and community participation: A new approach to urban regeneration in China. \u003cem\u003eCities\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e102\u003c/b\u003e, 102743. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.cities.2020.102743\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.cities.2020.102743\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLi, Y. \u0026amp; Wu, F. The transformation of regional governance in China: The rescaling of statehood. \u003cem\u003eProgress Plann.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e78\u003c/b\u003e (2), 55\u0026ndash;99. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.progress.2012.03.001\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.progress.2012.03.001\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2012).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLiao, C., Ross, H., Jones, N. \u0026amp; Palaniappan, G. System lacks systems thinking: Top-down organization and actor agency in China's agricultural extension system. \u003cem\u003eSyst. Res. Behav. Sci.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e41\u003c/b\u003e (1), 82\u0026ndash;99. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1002/sres.2943\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1002/sres.2943\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2024).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLiu, K., Ge, S., Wu, X. \u0026amp; Li, D. Evaluation and Planning Application of Oasis Habitat Stability in Arid Regions Based on the PPSD Model: A Case Study of Wensu County, Xinjiang. (2024). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.31223/X59T3M\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.31223/X59T3M\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLovan, W. R., Murray, M. \u0026amp; Shaffer, R. Participatory governance in a changing world \u003cem\u003eParticipatory Governance: Planning, Conflict Mediation and Public Decision Making in Civil Society\u003c/em\u003e. (2004).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLovan, W. R., Murray, M. \u0026amp; Shaffer, R. \u003cem\u003eParticipatory governance: planning, conflict mediation and public decision-making in civil society\u003c/em\u003e (Routledge, 2017).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarcoulides, G. A. \u0026amp; Saunders, C. (eds) Editor's comments: PLS: a silver bullet? \u003cem\u003eMIS quarterly\u003c/em\u003e, iii-ix (2006).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMcGurk, E., Hynes, S. \u0026amp; Thorne, F. Participation in agri-environmental schemes: A contingent valuation study of farmers in Ireland. \u003cem\u003eJ. Environ. Manage.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e262\u003c/b\u003e, 110243. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110243\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110243\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeng, F., Chen, H., Yu, Z., Xiao, W. \u0026amp; Tan, Y. What drives farmers to participate in rural environmental governance? evidence from villages in sandu town, eastern china. \u003cem\u003eSustainability\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e14\u003c/b\u003e (6), 3394. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.3390/su14063394\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/su14063394\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMills, J. et al. Engaging farmers in environmental management through a better understanding of behaviour. \u003cem\u003eAgric. Hum. Values\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e34\u003c/b\u003e, 283\u0026ndash;299. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1007/s10460-016-9705-4\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s10460-016-9705-4\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2017).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMishra, A. K. \u0026amp; Khanal, A. R. Is participation in agri-environmental programs affected by liquidity and solvency? \u003cem\u003eLand. Use Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e35\u003c/b\u003e, 163\u0026ndash;170. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.landusepol.2013.05.015\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.landusepol.2013.05.015\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2013).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMondal, S. \u0026amp; Palit, D. \u003cem\u003eChallenges in natural resource management for ecological sustainability Natural Resources Conservation and Advances for Sustainability\u003c/em\u003e pp. 29\u0026ndash;59 (Elsevier, 2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNewig, J. \u0026amp; Fritsch, O. Environmental governance: participatory, multi-level\u0026ndash;and effective? \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Policy Gov.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e19\u003c/b\u003e (3), 197\u0026ndash;214. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1002/eet.509\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1002/eet.509\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2009).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePavlis, E. S., Terkenli, T. S., Kristensen, S. B. P., Busck, A. G. \u0026amp; Cosor, G. L. Patterns of agri-environmental scheme participation in Europe: Indicative trends from selected case studies. \u003cem\u003eLand. Use Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e57\u003c/b\u003e, 800\u0026ndash;812. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.09.024\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.09.024\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2016).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRaggi, M., Viaggi, D., Bartolini, F. \u0026amp; Furlan, A. The role of policy priorities and targeting in the spatial location of participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes in Emilia-Romagna (Italy). \u003cem\u003eLand. Use Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e47\u003c/b\u003e, 78\u0026ndash;89. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.03.005\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.landusepol.2015.03.005\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2015).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRaymond, C. M., Bieling, C., Fagerholm, N., Martin-Lopez, B. \u0026amp; Plieninger, T. The farmer as a landscape steward: comparing local understandings of landscape stewardship, landscape values, and land management actions. \u003cem\u003eAmbio\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e45\u003c/b\u003e, 173\u0026ndash;184. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1007/s13280-015-0694-0\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s13280-015-0694-0\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2016).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRunhaar, H. A. et al. Promoting nature conservation by Dutch farmers: a governance perspective. \u003cem\u003eInt. J. Agric. Sustain.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e15\u003c/b\u003e (3), 264\u0026ndash;281. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1080/14735903.2016.1232015\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1080/14735903.2016.1232015\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2017).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSarstedt, M., Hair, J. F., Ringle, C. M., Thiele, K. O. \u0026amp; Gudergan, S. P. Estimation issues with PLS and CBSEM: Where the bias lies! \u003cem\u003eJ. Bus. Res.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e69\u003c/b\u003e (10), 3998\u0026ndash;4010. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jbusres.2016.06.007\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jbusres.2016.06.007\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2016).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSaxby, H., Gkartzios, M. \u0026amp; Scott, K. Farming on the Edge\u0026rsquo;: Wellbeing and Participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes. \u003cem\u003eSociologia Ruralis\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e58\u003c/b\u003e (2), 392\u0026ndash;411. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/soru.12180\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/soru.12180\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSchaub, S. et al. The role of behavioural factors and opportunity costs in farmers' participation in voluntary agri-environmental schemes: A systematic review. \u003cem\u003eJ. Agric. Econ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/1477-9552.12538\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/1477-9552.12538\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2023).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShi, J., Xu, K. \u0026amp; Duan, K. Investigating the intention to participate in environmental governance during urban-rural integrated development process in the Yangtze River Delta Region. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Sci. Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e128\u003c/b\u003e, 132\u0026ndash;141. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.envsci.2021.11.008\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.envsci.2021.11.008\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSi, H., Shen, L., Liu, W. \u0026amp; Wu, G. Uncovering people\u0026rsquo;s mask-saving intentions and behaviors in the post-COVID-19 period: Evidence from China. \u003cem\u003eSustainable Cities Soc.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e65\u003c/b\u003e, 102626. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.scs.2020.102626\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.scs.2020.102626\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSparrevik, M., Ellen, G. J. \u0026amp; Duijn, M. \u003cem\u003eEvaluation of factors affecting stakeholder risk perception of contaminated sediment disposal in\u003c/em\u003e (ACS, 2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrydom, W., Puren, K. \u0026amp; Drewes, E. Exploring theoretical trends in placemaking: Towards new perspectives in spatial planning. \u003cem\u003eJ. Place Manage. Dev.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e11\u003c/b\u003e (2), 165\u0026ndash;180. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1108/JPMD-11-2017-0113\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1108/JPMD-11-2017-0113\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrydom, W. F. Applying the theory of planned behavior to recycling behavior in South Africa. \u003cem\u003eRecycling\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e3\u003c/b\u003e (3), 43. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.3390/recycling3030043\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.3390/recycling3030043\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2018).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeff-Seker, Y., Segre, H., Eizenberg, E., Orenstein, D. E. \u0026amp; Shwartz, A. Factors influencing farmer and resident willingness to adopt an agri-environmental scheme in Israel. \u003cem\u003eJ. Environ. Manage.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e302\u003c/b\u003e, 114066. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114066\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114066\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTeng\u0026ouml;, M., Austin, B. J., Danielsen, F. \u0026amp; Fern\u0026aacute;ndez-Llamazares, \u0026Aacute;. Creating synergies between citizen science and Indigenous and local knowledge. \u003cem\u003eBioScience\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e71\u003c/b\u003e (5), 503\u0026ndash;518. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1093/biosci/biab023\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1093/biosci/biab023\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTerry, D. J. \u0026amp; O'Leary, J. E. The theory of planned behaviour: The effects of perceived behavioural control and self-efficacy. \u003cem\u003eBr. J. Soc. Psychol.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e34\u003c/b\u003e (2), 199\u0026ndash;220. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/j.2044-8309.1995.tb01058.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/j.2044-8309.1995.tb01058.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (1995).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurner, N. C., Molyneux, N., Yang, S., Xiong, Y. C. \u0026amp; Siddique, K. H. Climate change in south-west Australia and north-west China: challenges and opportunities for crop production. \u003cem\u003eCrop Pasture Sci.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e62\u003c/b\u003e (6), 445\u0026ndash;456. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1071/CP10372/1836-0947/11/060445\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1071/CP10372/1836-0947/11/060445\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2011).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUthes, S. \u0026amp; Matzdorf, B. Studies on agri-environmental measures: a survey of the literature. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Manage.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e51\u003c/b\u003e (1), 251\u0026ndash;266. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1007/s00267-012-9959-6\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s00267-012-9959-6\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2013).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVanslembrouck, I., Huylenbroeck, G. \u0026amp; Verbeke, W. Determinants of the Willingness of Belgian Farmers to Participate in Agri-environmental Measures. \u003cem\u003eJ. Agric. Econ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e53\u003c/b\u003e (3), 489\u0026ndash;511. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/j.1477-9552.2002.tb00034.x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/j.1477-9552.2002.tb00034.x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2002).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWąs, A. et al. In search of factors determining the participation of farmers in agri-environmental schemes\u0026ndash;Does only money matter in Poland? \u003cem\u003eLand. Use Policy\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e101\u003c/b\u003e, 105190. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.landusepol.2020.105190\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.landusepol.2020.105190\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWei, Y. et al. Farmers' perception of environmental degradation and their adoption of improved management practices in Alxa, China. \u003cem\u003eLand Degrad. Dev.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e20\u003c/b\u003e (3), 336\u0026ndash;346. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1002/ldr.922\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1002/ldr.922\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2009).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWheeler, R. et al. Collaboration and incentives\u0026ndash;Achieving environmental benefits at large spatial scales through environmental land management. \u003cem\u003eSummary report\u003c/em\u003e, 1\u0026ndash;29 (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWilson, G. A. \u0026amp; Hart, K. Farmer Participation in Agri-Environmental Schemes: Towards Conservation-Oriented Thinking? \u003cem\u003eSociologia Ruralis\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e41\u003c/b\u003e (2), 254\u0026ndash;274. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1111/1467-9523.00181\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1111/1467-9523.00181\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2001).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWu, M. \u003cem\u003eStructural Equation Modeling: Operations and Applications of AMOS (2nd Edition)\u003c/em\u003e: Chongqing University Press. (2010).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWynne-Jones, S. Understanding farmer co-operation: Exploring practices of social relatedness and emergent affects. \u003cem\u003eJ. Rural Stud.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e53\u003c/b\u003e, 259\u0026ndash;268. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jrurstud.2017.02.012\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jrurstud.2017.02.012\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2017).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eXin-min, Z., Wei, J. \u0026amp; Wen-ming, C. Study on the Willingness of ༲ural ༲esidents to Participate in the Environmental Governance of Human Set tlements Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior: Taking Xinjiang as an Example. \u003cem\u003eJ. Ecol. Rural Environ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e37\u003c/b\u003e (4), 9. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.19741/j.issn.1673-4831.2020.0560\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.19741/j.issn.1673-4831.2020.0560\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eXue, J. et al. Oasification: An unable evasive process in fighting against desertification for the sustainable development of arid and semiarid regions of China. \u003cem\u003eCatena\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e179\u003c/b\u003e, 197\u0026ndash;209. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.catena.2019.03.02\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.catena.2019.03.02\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2019).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eXue, X., Liao, J., Hsing, Y., Huang, C. \u0026amp; Liu, F. Policies, land use, and water resource management in an arid oasis ecosystem. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Manage.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e55\u003c/b\u003e, 1036\u0026ndash;1051. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1007/s00267-015-0451-y\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s00267-015-0451-y\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2015).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYanchun. Government\u0026rsquo;s responsibility in rural environmental governance: from the perspective of metagovernance. \u003cem\u003eChina Popul. Resour. Environ.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e31\u003c/b\u003e (2), 9. 10.12062 /cpre.20200927 (2021).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYazdanpanah, M. et al. What factors contribute to conversion to organic farming? Consideration of the Health Belief Model in relation to the uptake of organic farming by Iranian farmers. \u003cem\u003eJ. Environ. Planning Manage.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e65\u003c/b\u003e (5), 907\u0026ndash;929. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1080/09640568.2021.1917348\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1080/09640568.2021.1917348\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYin, Y. et al. Driving mechanism for farmers' participation in improving farmland ecosystem: Evidence from China. \u003cem\u003eJ. Clean. Prod.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e380\u003c/b\u003e, 134895. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003e10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.134895\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.134895\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2022).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"farmer participation in ecologicalgovernance, participation behaviour, intention-behaviour, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), Northwest China Arid Region","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eEcological governance is an important tool to curb environmental degradation in the arid regions of northwest China. Given the crucial role of farmers in supporting the environmental health of rural communities, this study aims to clarify the factors that influence farmers\u0026rsquo; intentions and behaviour in participating in environmental governance. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse data from 315 farmers in Changji City, Xinjiang. The model examines the influence of emotional attachment to the environment, awareness of responsibility for the environment and perceived ease of participation on farmers\u0026rsquo; intention to participate in environmental governance. The results suggest that emotional and practical factors significantly increase intentions to participate, while some social norms and perceived effectiveness of governance have limited effects. These findings emphasise the need for interventions that strengthen practical support and emotional engagement and address both psychological and structural barriers to promote sustainable environmental practises in rural areas.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Modelling Farmer’s Intention-behavior to Participate in Ecological Governance in the Northwest China Arid Region","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-03-18 15:34:53","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8406467/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"6195426630474475915029227187017360307","date":"2026-04-10T05:44:24+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-07T05:19:42+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-07T04:57:46+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"107016099916653305344314569981884858227","date":"2026-04-06T06:50:22+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"65480224937675029968147552738976324035","date":"2026-04-05T05:45:41+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"217021454935563560729273599685489058580","date":"2026-03-20T08:43:26+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-03-17T04:44:59+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-01-30T04:40:41+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-01-27T05:41:41+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Scientific Reports","date":"2026-01-27T05:34:38+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"8947e7a5-999d-4b3e-a9d3-471909eaecd6","owner":[],"postedDate":"March 18th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[{"id":64635902,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences"},{"id":64635903,"name":"Social science/Environmental studies"},{"id":64635904,"name":"Scientific community and society/Geography"},{"id":64635905,"name":"Social science/Geography"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-18T15:34:53+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-03-18 15:34:53","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8406467","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8406467","identity":"rs-8406467","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}