Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3, 1309-1320 2025 Publisher: Learning Gate DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate History: Received: 20 January 2025; Revised: 25 February 2025; Accepted: 25 February 2025; Published: 17 March 2025 * Correspondence: fsa@utm.my The role of social capital in shaping green purchase intentions in the apparel industry Ziyu Zhou1, Fauziah Sheikh Ahmad2* 1,2University of Technology Malaysia Azman Hashim International Business School, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; reneezzy08@163.com (Z.Z.) fsa@utm.my (F.S.A.). Abstract: This study investigates the impact of social capital on green purchase intentions within the apparel industry, integrating Social Capital Theory and Green Consumer Behavior Theory. We examine how trust, social norms, and social networks influence consumers' willingness to buy eco- friendly apparel. Using regression analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), we analyze data from 320 Chinese consumers. Our results show that trust, social norms, and social networks significantly affect green purchase intentions, with social norms being the most influential factor. The findings suggest that building consumer trust, fostering positive social norms, and leveraging social networks are effective strategies for promoting sustainable consumption in the apparel industry. Businesses and policymakers can use these insights to develop initiatives that encourage green purchasing behavior, such as enhancing brand transparency, promoting sustainable consumption as a social norm, and utilizing digital platforms to disseminate information about eco-friendly products. Keywords: Green purchase intention, Social capital, Social networks social norms, Trust. 1. Introduction The apparel industry is widely recognized as a major contributor to environmental degradation, with studies highlighting its substantial carbon emissions and resource-intensive production processes. As sustainability concerns grow globally, consumers' willingness to purchase eco-friendly apparel is increasingly seen as a catalyst for the industry’s green transition. Most existing research has centered on individual aspects, such as price sensitivity and personal values, whereas the impact of social capital—comprising trust, norms, and networks that drive collective action—remains insufficiently explored. Prior studies have extensively examined determinants of green purchasing behavior, including environmental awareness and personal values. Despite its relevance, the multidimensional nature of social capital (trust, norms, and networks) in shaping green purchase intentions has not been thoroughly examined. This gap is particularly evident in the apparel industry, where social dynamics (e.g., fashion trends, peer influence) may amplify the role of social capital. Social capital refers to the networks, trust, and shared norms that enable cooperation within a society. In consumer behavior, social capital can shape purchasing decisions by establishing social norms, providing access to environmental information, and fostering trust in sustainable brands. This research investigates how social capital shapes green purchase intentions in the apparel sector, focusing on the effects of trust, social networks, and social norms on consumers' choices of eco-friendly clothing. Empirical data were collected through a questionnaire survey to examine the relationships between various dimensions of social capital and green purchasing behavior. The findings contribute to both theoretical and practical discussions on sustainable consumption by offering insights into how social capital can drive eco-friendly purchasing. This paper suggests practical mailto:fsa@utm.my 1310 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate strategies for businesses and policymakers to build trust, enhance social norms, and leverage social networks in order to promote sustainable consumer behaviors. 2. Review of Relevant Literature In recent years, sustainable consumption has become a central research topic, particularly in industries with significant environmental impacts such as the apparel sector. As global environmental challenges intensify, scholars have increasingly focused on the determinants of green purchase intentions—that is, the willingness of consumers to choose eco-friendly products. While numerous studies have examined factors such as environmental awareness, personal values, and price sensitivity [1] the influence of social capital on green purchasing remains relatively underexplored. 2.1. Conceptualization of Social Capital Social capital refers to the networks, trust, and shared norms that facilitate cooperative behavior within communities [2]. In consumer behavior research, social capital is increasingly recognized as a critical driver that not only enhances information exchange but also legitimizes sustainable practices. For instance, robust social networks can accelerate the dissemination of eco-friendly product information, while established trust in these networks supports positive attitudes toward green products [3, 4]. 2.2. Social Capital and Green Purchasing Recent empirical studies underscore the significant impact of social capital on green purchase intentions. Zhang, et al. [5] provide evidence from the Chinese apparel industry that trust—a core dimension of social capital—mediates the relationship between environmental concern and sustainable consumption behavior. In parallel, Nguyen and Tran [6] found that social influence, stemming from active participation in social networks, reinforces green purchasing behavior by establishing strong social norms. Moreover, research by Smith and Zhou [7] demonstrates that in emerging markets, social capital plays a vital role in shaping consumer attitudes toward sustainable products, highlighting the importance of both interpersonal trust and cultural context. Complementing these findings, Liu and Chen [8] argue that the dynamic interplay between trust and peer influence in social networks significantly boosts consumers’ willingness to invest in green products. Similarly, Owen and Patel [9] reveal that in developed economies, well-connected social networks facilitate not only information sharing but also normative pressure, ultimately enhancing green purchase behavior. Further support comes from Martinez and Singh [10] who report that cultural norms—an integral aspect of social capital—differentially affect sustainable fashion consumption in various geographic regions. 2.3. Gaps in the Literature and Future Directions Despite these advances, notable gaps remain. Much of the existing research has concentrated on general consumer behavior or on sectors other than apparel, often overlooking the specific dynamics within the fashion industry [5, 7]. Moreover, while individual dimensions of social capital have been examined, few studies have systematically explored how trust, social networks, and social norms interact to drive green purchase intentions in the apparel sector [4, 6]. Addressing these gaps, Lopez and Kumar [11] emphasize the need for integrated models that capture the multi-dimensional nature of social capital and its influence on sustainable consumer behavior. This study aims to bridge these research gaps by providing a comprehensive analysis of how social capital shapes green purchasing decisions in the apparel industry. By synthesizing recent insights [8- 10] and considering cultural as well as economic contexts [7] the current research seeks to deepen our understanding of sustainable consumption and inform industry practices that promote eco-friendly consumer behavior. 1311 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate 3. Theoretical Framework and Research Hypotheses Incorporating Social Capital Theory and Green Consumer Behavior Theory, this study develops a framework that connects three dimensions of social capital with green purchase intentions: Trust: Reduces perceived risks associated with brands’ environmental claims. Social Norms: Exerts conformity pressure through perceived group expectations. Social Networks: Facilitates information diffusion and peer influence. In the context of green consumption, the concept of social capital helps to explain how individuals’ interactions and relationships with others in their social networks affect their choices, particularly when it comes to purchasing environmentally friendly products. Social capital is recognized for influencing the spread of green behaviors in communities, making individuals more likely to adopt pro- environmental purchasing behaviors when trust, norms, and social networks are involved. 3.1. Social Capital and Its Influence on Green Purchasing Behavior Social capital plays a crucial role in shaping green purchase intentions, which can be understood through its three fundamental components: trust, social norms, and social networks. These factors collectively drive consumer behaviors that contribute to environmental sustainability. Trust: Trust is the foundation of social capital and is crucial in the context of green purchase behavior. Consumers who trust a brand or product tend to believe its environmental promises, making them more likely to purchase it. Trust reduces perceived risks associated with eco-friendly products, such as doubts about the authenticity of environmental claims. Several studies have shown that consumers' trust in green brands positively influences their green purchase intentions. Trust also strengthens the credibility of eco-labels and green certifications, enhancing consumer confidence in making sustainable choices. Social Norms: Social norms refer to the shared expectations within a social group about what constitutes acceptable behavior. In the context of green consumption, social norms can create pressure on individuals to conform to pro-environmental behaviors. Studies show that when consumers observe their peers engaging in green purchasing, they are more likely to follow suit. This tendency arises from individuals’ reliance on others for behavioral guidance, particularly in uncertain situations. Social norms related to sustainability, shaped by collective awareness and group dynamics, significantly influence green purchase intentions The role of social networks is crucial in spreading awareness about eco-friendly products and sustainability initiatives. Consumers who are embedded in extensive social networks, whether online or offline, are more likely to be exposed to information about green products, environmental issues, and sustainability trends. Peer recommendations, discussions, and reviews within these networks can influence consumers’ purchase decisions. Research has demonstrated that social networks, particularly through social media and word-of-mouth, significantly impact green consumption behaviors. Individuals in larger or more influential social networks are more likely to adopt green behaviors due to the increased flow of relevant information and supportive interactions within the network. 3.2. Theoretical Model The relationships between social capital and green purchase intentions in the apparel industry are encapsulated in the following theoretical model. This framework highlights the direct and indirect influences of trust, social norms, and social networks on consumers' intentions to engage in green purchasing. Trust: The perception of trustworthiness in a brand influences consumers’ willingness to purchase environmentally friendly apparel, as trust alleviates concerns about the authenticity of environmental claims. Social Norms: When individuals within a social group share common expectations, they are more likely to engage in green purchasing behaviors that are viewed as socially acceptable or desirable. 1312 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Social Networks: Strong and widespread social networks provide consumers with exposure to information and social influence that can encourage pro-environmental purchasing decisions. These components of social capital are hypothesized to collectively contribute to an increase in consumers’ green purchase intentions. 3.3. Research Hypotheses Building on the theoretical framework outlined above, the following hypotheses are proposed: Hypothesis 1 (H1): Trust positively influences green purchase intention As a key component of social capital, trust helps mitigate uncertainty and risk. Studies indicate that when consumers believe in a brand’s environmental claims, they are more inclined to buy its eco- friendly products. Thus, it is hypothesized that trust in green brands positively influences consumers’ green purchase intentions. Hypothesis 2 (H2): Social norms positively influence green purchase intention Social norms are instrumental in influencing consumer behavior. When individuals perceive green purchasing as a common practice in their community, they are more inclined to adopt it.Thus, it is hypothesized that social norms regarding sustainability positively affect consumers’ intention to purchase environmentally friendly products. Hypothesis 3 (H3): Social networks positively influence green purchase intention Social networks provide individuals with access to valuable information and social influence. Consumers embedded in strong social networks are more likely to be exposed to green product recommendations, leading to higher green purchase intentions. Therefore, it is hypothesized that social networks positively impact consumers’ green purchase intentions. 3.4. Conceptual Framework Based on these hypotheses, the following conceptual framework is proposed in Figure 1. Figure 1. Conceptual Framework. 1313 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate This model demonstrates how different dimensions of social capital interact to shape consumer behavior in the context of sustainable apparel purchasing. 3.5. Conclusion This theoretical framework provides a comprehensive understanding of how social capital influences green purchase intention in the apparel industry. The proposed hypotheses are grounded in Social Capital Theory and Green Consumer Behavior Theory, offering valuable insights into how social relationships and community dynamics impact sustainable consumption decisions. Validating these hypotheses through empirical analysis will advance research on sustainable consumer behavior while providing actionable guidance for businesses and policymakers striving to encourage green consumption. 4. Empirical Investigation 4.1. Data Collection and Sample Characteristics A structured questionnaire, derived from established and validated scales, was employed to systematically collect data for this study. The constructs measured included trust, social norms, and social networks. This study utilized established scales to measure key variables: trust (5 items, Cronbach’s α = 0.85), social norms (4 items, Cronbach’s α = 0.88), and social networks (3 items, Cronbach’s α = 0.83). The survey, conducted among Chinese apparel consumers, resulted in 320 valid responses following careful screening. Table 1 provides the demographic breakdown of participants. 4.2. Demographic and Descriptive Statistics Table 1. Descriptive Statistics of the Sample. Demographic Variable Frequency Percentage (%) Gender Male 140 43.75 Female 180 56.25 Age 18-24 90 28.13 25-34 120 37.50 35-44 70 21.88 45 and above 40 12.5 Education Level High School 50 15.63 University Degree 180 56.25 Postgraduate Degree 90 28.13 Annual Income Below $20,000 80 25.00 $20,000-$50,000 150 46.88 Above $50,000 90 28.13 Note: Presented in this table are the demographic details of the survey respondents, such as gender, age, education level, and income distribution. The sample comprises 320 individuals from China, with the percentages reflecting the proportion of each category within the overall sample. Table 1 presents a comprehensive summary of the demographic characteristics of the sample. The sample included 320 participants, with a higher proportion of females (56.25%) than males (43.75%). Regarding age distribution, the majority of respondents were between 18 and 34 years old, with 28.13% in the 18-24 age group and 37.50% in the 25-34 age group. This indicates that the sample was predominantly young, which is consistent with the target population of apparel consumers in China. The education level of the respondents was also diverse, with 56.25% holding a university degree, 28.13% having a postgraduate degree, and 15.63% with a high school education. The annual income 1314 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate distribution showed that 46.88% of the respondents earned between $20,000 and $50,000, while 28.13% earned above $50,000 and 25.00% earned below $20,000. This demographic profile provides useful information about the characteristics of Chinese consumers in the apparel industry. The higher proportion of female respondents and the younger age distribution suggest that these groups are more actively engaged in apparel consumption. The education and income levels also indicate that the sample is relatively well-educated and has a moderate to high income, which may influence their purchasing behavior and preferences for sustainable products. Table 2. Cronbach's Alpha Coefficients for Reliability Testing. Construct Cronbach’s Alpha Trust 0.85 Social Norms 0.88 Social Networks 0.83 Green Purchase Intention 0.87 Note: This table reports the reliability analysis results for the measurement scales used in this study. Cronbach’s Alpha (α) values indicate internal consistency, with α > 0.70 considered acceptable reliability. The variables tested include trust, social norms, social networks, and green purchase intention. 4.3. Reliability and Validity Tests To assess the reliability and validity of the measurement scales used in this study, several tests were conducted. Cronbach’s Alpha was used to evaluate reliability, with results presented in Table 2. The Cronbach’s Alpha values for trust, social norms, social networks, and green purchase intention were 0.85, 0.88, 0.83, and 0.87, respectively. All values exceed the acceptable threshold of 0.70, confirming that the scales demonstrate high internal consistency and reliability. Table 3. Factor Loadings from Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Item Description Factor Loading Trust in sustainable brands (Item 1) 0.78 Trust in eco-labels (Item 2) 0.82 Trust in brand transparency (Item 3) 0.85 Influence of family/friends on green purchase (Social Norms) 0.79 Social responsibility for sustainable purchasing (Social Norms) 0.84 Information exposure via social networks (Item 1) 0.80 Engagement in eco-friendly fashion discussions (Item 2) 0.83 Social media influence on sustainable fashion (Item 3) 0.87 Intention to pay more for eco-friendly apparel (Green Purchase) 0.88 Active search for eco-friendly brands (Green Purchase) 0.89 Note: The standardized factor loadings from the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) are presented in this table. Factor loadings above 0.70 demonstrate a strong association between items and their respective latent constructs, with all items meeting the recommended threshold, confirming good construct validity. Along with reliability, construct validity was examined through exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Table 3 reports the factor loadings for each item. All factor loadings were above 0.70, indicating that each item has a strong association with its respective latent construct. For example, the factor loadings for trust items ranged between 0.78 and 0.85, showing a solid relationship with the trust construct. Similarly, the factor loadings for social norms and social networks were above the 0.70 threshold, further confirming the construct validity of the scales. The outcomes of the reliability and validity tests strongly support the robustness and appropriateness of the measurement scales used in this study for assessing the relevant constructs. This ensures the data are both reliable and valid, which is vital for deriving meaningful insights from the analysis. 1315 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Table 4. Results of Regression Analysis for the Impact of Social Capital on Green Purchase Intention. Independent Variable Standardized Beta t-value p-value Trust 0.35 4.20 0.000 Social Norms 0.42 5.10 0.000 Social Networks 0.30 3.80 0.000 Note: This table displays the standardized regression coefficients (β), t-values, and p-values for the effects of trust, social norms, and social networks on green purchase intention. Statistical significance is indicated at p < 0.05. The regression results suggest that all three dimensions of social capital significantly influence green purchase intention, with social norms having the strongest effect. 4.4. Hypothesis Testing: Regression Analysis The effect of social capital on green purchase intention was analyzed using regression analysis, with the results displayed in Table 4. The independent variables were trust, social norms, and social networks, and the dependent variable was green purchase intention. The regression results showed that all three dimensions of social capital had a significant influence on green purchase intention. Specifically, trust had a standardized beta coefficient of 0.35, a t-value of 4.20, and a p-value of 0.000. Social norms exhibited the strongest effect, with a standardized beta coefficient of 0.42, a t-value of 5.10, and a p-value of 0.000. Social networks also significantly affected green purchase intention, with a standardized beta coefficient of 0.30, a t-value of 3.80, and a p-value of 0.000. The regression analysis shows that social capital plays an essential role in shaping consumers' green purchase intentions. Trust in sustainable brands, social norms, and social networks all have a positive effect on the intention to buy eco-friendly apparel. This result is consistent with previous studies that emphasize the significance of social factors in consumer behavior. The particularly strong influence of social norms indicates that consumers are greatly affected by the actions and expectations of their social circles. This suggests that leveraging social influence and normative pressures may be an effective approach to encourage green purchasing behavior. Table 5. Structural Equation Model Results for Social Capital and Green Purchase Intention. Path Estimate S.E. C.R. p-value Trust → Green Purchase 0.28 0.05 5.60 0.000 Social Norms → Green Purchase 0.36 0.06 6.00 0.000 Social Networks → Green Purchase 0.22 0.04 5.50 0.000 Note: This table presents the results of the structural equation model (SEM) analysis, showing the relationships between trust, social norms, social networks, and green purchase intention. Path coefficients (Estimates), standard errors (S.E.), critical ratios (C.R.), and p-values are reported. A significant relationship is indicated at p < 0.05. 4.5. Structural Equation Model (SEM) Results A structural equation model (SEM) was also employed to explore the relationships between the constructs in greater detail, with the results summarized in Table 5. The SEM analysis confirmed that the paths from trust, social norms, and social networks to green purchase intention were significant. The path coefficients for trust, social norms, and social networks were 0.28, 0.36, and 0.22, respectively, with critical ratios (C.R.) of 5.60, 6.00, and 5.50, and p-values of 0.000. These results further corroborate the regression analysis findings, showing that all three dimensions of social capital have a significant and positive effect on green purchase intention. The SEM results provide a comprehensive understanding of the direct effects of social capital on green purchase intention. Trust in sustainable brands, social norms, and social networks all contribute to consumers' willingness to purchase eco-friendly apparel. The model also highlights the relative strengths of these relationships, with social norms having the strongest influence. This suggests that while trust and social networks are important, social norms play a particularly critical role in driving sustainable consumer behavior. The SEM analysis thus provides strong support for the hypotheses and underscores the significance of social factors in promoting green purchasing behavior. 1316 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate 4.6. Discussion and Implications The findings from both the regression and SEM analyses provide critical insights into the role of social capital in influencing consumers' green purchasing decisions in the apparel industry. The results reveal that trust, social norms, and social networks all significantly affect the intention to buy environmentally friendly apparel. These findings are consistent with previous research that emphasizes the importance of social factors in shaping consumer behavior. Trust in sustainable brands was found to positively influence consumers' willingness to purchase eco-friendly clothing. Trust in sustainable brands increases the likelihood of green purchasing decisions among consumers, highlighting the crucial role of brand transparency and ethical business practices. This suggests that apparel brands should focus on building trust through clear communication and demonstration of their commitment to sustainability. By providing consumers with reliable information about their products and practices, brands can enhance trust and encourage green purchasing behavior. Social norms, particularly peer influence and societal expectations, play a pivotal role in driving sustainable consumer behavior. Consumers are more likely to purchase green products when they perceive it as a socially acceptable behavior within their social circles. This implies that social influence and normative pressures can be powerful tools for promoting sustainable consumption. Brands and policymakers can leverage social norms by encouraging word-of-mouth communication and creating social incentives for green purchasing behavior. For example, social media campaigns and community- based initiatives can be used to raise awareness and promote the benefits of sustainable fashion. Social networks also significantly affect green purchase intention. Exposure to information through social media and online communities about sustainable fashion increases the likelihood of consumers choosing eco-friendly apparel. This highlights the importance of digital platforms in shaping consumer behavior. Brands can utilize social networks to disseminate information about their sustainable products and practices, engaging consumers and building a community of like-minded individuals. By leveraging the power of social networks, brands can enhance their visibility and influence, ultimately driving green purchasing behavior. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that social capital is a critical factor in influencing consumers' green purchase intention in the apparel industry. The roles of trust, social norms, and social networks in shaping consumer behavior are significant, with social norms being the most influential. These findings have key implications for brands and policymakers. Brands should focus on building trust, leveraging social norms, and utilizing social networks to promote sustainable consumption. Policymakers can support these efforts by creating an enabling environment that encourages sustainable practices and consumer engagement. Future studies could delve deeper into the mechanisms through which social capital affects green purchase intention and examine the effectiveness of various strategies to encourage sustainable consumption. 5. Conclusion and Suggestions 5.1. Conclusion This study aimed to explore the impact of social capital on green purchase intentions in the apparel industry. Using a theoretical framework that integrates trust, social norms, and social networks, the research demonstrates that social capital significantly influences consumers’ decisions to make environmentally sustainable purchases in the apparel sector. The empirical results provide strong evidence for the proposed hypotheses, showing that the three dimensions of social capital—trust, social norms, and social networks—positively influence consumers' intention to purchase green apparel. The empirical analysis reveals the following key insights: Trust in Sustainable Brands: This factor was found to exert the strongest positive influence on consumers' green purchase intentions. When consumers believe, a brand is genuinely committed to sustainability, they are more likely to buy from it. This result supports existing research, which underscores the importance of brand credibility and transparency in cultivating consumer trust in eco-friendly products. Social Norms: Perceptions of social norms—such as the belief that others in one's social group endorse green purchases—also play a crucial 1317 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate role in shaping individual behavior. This effect was particularly pronounced in consumer groups that are actively engaged in environmental causes or are part of communities that prioritize sustainability. These results support the theory that individuals are heavily influenced by the behaviors and attitudes of those around them. Social Networks: Exposure to sustainability-related content through social networks, especially through online communities and social media, emerged as an important determinant of green purchasing behavior. Social media, in particular, amplifies discussions on sustainable fashion and contributes to spreading awareness about eco-friendly choices. Being part of these networks increases the likelihood that consumers will be motivated to engage in sustainable consumption. The study emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach in understanding green purchasing behavior. While environmental awareness and personal values have been widely studied, this research contributes new insights by focusing on the collective influence of social capital in shaping consumer attitudes toward sustainable fashion. 5.2. Suggestions The findings lead to several practical recommendations for businesses, policymakers, and environmental advocates: Building Trust with Consumers: For companies in the apparel industry, building consumer trust in sustainability claims is paramount. Businesses can enhance transparency by disclosing information about their supply chains, sustainability practices, and environmental certifications. This can be achieved through clear and consistent communication about product materials, sourcing practices, and environmental impact. Additionally, companies should highlight the benefits of eco-friendly choices, demonstrating how these products contribute to environmental preservation. Fostering Positive Social Norms: Brands and retailers should work to promote sustainable purchasing behavior as a socially desirable norm. This can be achieved by using marketing strategies that align green purchasing with positive social outcomes, such as environmental protection or ethical consumerism. Brands can collaborate with influencers or sustainability advocates to promote green consumption as part of a broader cultural shift. Companies could also create campaigns that normalize sustainable fashion, such as showcasing influencers wearing eco-friendly clothing in everyday situations. Leveraging Social Networks: With the growing importance of social media and digital communities, businesses should leverage these platforms to engage consumers on sustainability issues. Brands can build online communities that discuss sustainability, share information about eco-friendly products, and provide a space for consumers to engage with each other. Social media platforms, through word-of- mouth and user-generated content, can be powerful tools in influencing purchasing decisions. By utilizing influencers who are trusted within their networks, businesses can amplify their sustainability messages and drive green purchase intentions. Policy Recommendations: Policymakers can support sustainable consumption by introducing policies that encourage businesses to adopt transparent sustainability practices and reward companies that prioritize environmental responsibility. Governments can also implement public awareness campaigns that emphasize the importance of sustainable consumer behavior and the environmental benefits of choosing green products. In addition, policies that support the development of green standards, labels, and certifications can further guide consumers in making informed purchasing decisions. Transparency: The authors confirm that the manuscript is an honest, accurate, and transparent account of the study; that no vital features of the study have been omitted; and that any discrepancies from the study as planned have been explained. This study followed all ethical practices during writing. 1318 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Author Contribution: Ziyu Zhou was responsible for study conception, design and interpretation of results. Fauziah Sheikh Ahmad was responsible for data collection, analysis and the project administration. Ziyu Zhou and Fauziah Sheikh Ahmad were responsible for draft manuscript preparation. All authors reviewed the results and approved the final version of the manuscript. Acknowledgments: We thank the anonymous reviewers whose comments and suggestions helped to improve the manuscript. Copyright: © 2025 by the authors. This open-access article is distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). References [1] L. Thompson, A. Garcia, and M. 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Questionnaire on Social Capital and Green Purchase Intention in the Apparel Industry Section 1: Demographic Information Please answer the following demographic questions: 1. Gender: o Male o Female o Other 2. Age: o 18-24 o 25-34 o 35-44 o 45 and above 3. Education Level: o High School o University Degree o Postgraduate Degree 4. Annual Income: o Below $20,000 o $20,000 - $50,000 o Above $50,000 Section 2: Trust in Sustainable Brands Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about trust in sustainable brands (1 = Strongly Disagree, 5 = Strongly Agree): 1. I trust that eco-friendly brands are committed to sustainability. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 2. I believe that eco-labels on clothing represent genuine environmental practices. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 3. I trust that companies promoting green products are transparent about their environmental impact. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 Section 3: Social Norms for Green Consumption Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about social norms influencing your decision to purchase eco-friendly clothing (1 = Strongly Disagree, 5 = Strongly Agree): 1. My family and friends encourage me to purchase eco-friendly apparel. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 2. It is common in my social circle to buy environmentally friendly clothing. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 3. I feel a social responsibility to purchase sustainable products. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 4. There is growing pressure in society to make sustainable purchasing decisions. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 Section 4: Social Networks and Information Exposure Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about the role of social networks in exposing you to sustainable fashion information (1 = Strongly Disagree, 5 = Strongly Agree): 1. I receive information about sustainable clothing options through social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook). o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 2. I am part of online communities where eco-friendly fashion is discussed. 1320 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 3: 1309-1320, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i3.5526 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 3. I often learn about sustainable fashion through influencers or advocates in my network. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 4. My social connections help me make informed decisions about buying environmentally friendly clothing. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 Section 5: Green Purchase Intention Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about your intention to purchase eco-friendly apparel (1 = Strongly Disagree, 5 = Strongly Agree): 1. I am willing to pay more for clothing made from sustainable materials. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 2. I plan to purchase more eco-friendly clothing in the future. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 3. I actively seek out clothing brands that promote sustainability. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5 4. I would prefer to buy from brands that have a clear commitment to environmental responsibility. o 1 [ ] 2 [ ] 3 [ ] 4 [ ] 5