




































Global Sustainability Research                                                                                                                                              ISSN: 2833-986X                                                 
https://doi.org/10.56556/gssr.v2i3.556 

                                                                  

 

 Global Scientific Research            52 
 

RESEARCH ARTICLE  

 

 Towards a sustainable green policing: A Delphi-based forecast of sustainability 

indicators for law enforcers 
 

Alvin Q. Romualdo1, Ava Clare Marie O. Robles2* 

 
1Philippine Public Safety College-National Police College Davao, Philippines 
2Mindanao State University-School of Graduate Studies, Philippines 

 

Corresponding Author: Alvin Q. Romualdo, MPSA: aqr031891@gmail.com 

Received: 01 July, 2023, Accepted: 28 July, 2023, Published: 01 August, 2023 

 

Abstract 

The environment holds a vital position within the framework of sustainable development, serving as the foundation upon 

which social and economic progress relies. However, its vulnerability and the market failures resulting from its degradation 

pose significant challenges to achieving sustainability. This study was conducted to gain valuable insights into the present and 

future performance of police officers concerning their role in advancing environmental sustainability. As a result of the 

consensus among the experts, a total of thirty (30) forecasted sustainability indicators for Green Policing were generated. 

These indicators represent the combined perspectives and agreements of the experts regarding the essential elements and 

factors involved in the implementation of Green Policing practices. The indicators are categorized into four themes that 

emerged from the analysis: Green Police Operations, Green Behavior and Awareness, Environmental Law Enforcement, and 

Community Partnerships and Engagement. These themes provide a comprehensive framework for guiding and assessing the 

implementation of Green Policing initiatives in various contexts. In light of these findings, it is strongly recommended that 

law enforcement agencies operating in the SOCCSKSARGEN region integrate these identified sustainability indicators into 

their Green Policing strategies and operations. By doing so, they can effectively align their practices with the principles of 

environmental sustainability and contribute to the overall advancement of Green Policing initiatives. Recognizing the 

interdependencies and taking concerted actions to address these issues, societies, with the law enforcers as stewards, can pave 

the way for a more resilient and harmonious relationship with the environment, fostering a sustainable future for generations 

to come. 

Keywords: green police operations; green behavior and awareness; environmental law enforcement; community 

partnerships and engagement 

 

Introduction 

The environment serves as a fundamental pillar of 

sustainable development, playing a pivotal role in 

supporting and influencing the social and economic 

dimensions. Over time, societies have recognized the 

significance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with 

the environment to ensure a balanced and sustainable way 

of life (Mensah, 2019). However, the environment faces 

continuous pressures and threats, making it highly 

vulnerable and prone to deterioration. In fact, it has become 

a prominent source of market failures worldwide, as its 

degradation undermines the well-being of individuals and 

societies at large. 

The interdependence between the environment and other 

dimensions of sustainable development is evident. Social 

and economic progress relies heavily on the availability of 

natural resources, the functioning of ecosystems, and the 

stability of ecological processes Chapin III et al., (2009); 

Harris & Roach (2013). From providing essential resources 

and ecosystem services to supporting livelihoods and 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            53 
 

economic activities, the environment acts as a foundation 

for human well-being and development. 

Nevertheless, the relentless exploitation of natural 

resources, pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, 

and other anthropogenic factors have severely impacted the 

environment. These pressures have led to various market 

failures, where the true value and costs associated with 

environmental degradation are not adequately accounted 

for UNEPIRP, 2011). As a result, society faces adverse 

consequences, such as resource depletion, biodiversity 

loss, environmental disasters, health risks, and socio-

economic imbalances. 

Recognizing the fragility and importance of the 

environment is crucial for addressing these challenges. 

Efforts must be directed towards sustainable practices, 

policies, and initiatives that aim to conserve and restore the 

environment while promoting socio-economic well-being. 

This necessitates a shift in mindset and behavior, as well as 

the adoption of innovative approaches that embrace the 

principles of sustainability, including conservation, 

resource efficiency, pollution prevention, and climate 

resilience. By acknowledging the integral role of the 

environment and addressing the market failures associated 

with its degradation, societies can strive towards a more 

sustainable future (Dean & McMullen, 2007). This entails 

promoting responsible consumption and production 

patterns, investing in renewable energy and green 

technologies, preserving ecosystems and biodiversity, 

implementing effective environmental regulations, 

fostering public awareness and participation, and 

encouraging collaboration between stakeholders at local, 

national, and global levels. 

Environmental law enforcement plays a crucial role in 

driving the pursuit of environmental, social, and economic 

sustainability. Within this context, the public safety sector 

holds significant responsibility for enforcing 

environmental laws and policies, thereby contributing to 

the establishment of green communities. Recognizing the 

importance of this role, the present study aimed to forecast 

the sustainability indicators of police officers in the field of 

Green Policing (Konyk, 2018; Romualdo 2022). 

By focusing on Green Policing, the study sought to 

understand and predict the extent to which police officers 

contribute to sustainable practices and outcomes. Green 

Policing entails the integration of environmental 

considerations into law enforcement practices, 

encompassing initiatives such as promoting environmental 

awareness, enforcing environmental regulations, fostering 

community engagement, and implementing sustainable 

approaches within police operations. 

Through forecasting the Green Policing sustainability 

indicators, the study aimed to provide insights into the 

current and future performance of police officers in terms 

of their contributions to environmental sustainability. This 

forecasting process involved analyzing various factors, 

such as the level of green behavior and awareness among 

police officers, the degree of environmental law 

enforcement, the level of community partnership and 

engagement, and other relevant dimensions identified 

within the Green Policing framework. 

Ultimately, the study aimed to contribute to the 

advancement of Green Policing as a holistic approach 

within the public safety sector, integrating environmental 

considerations into law enforcement practices. By 

forecasting the sustainability indicators of police officers, 

the research aimed to provide valuable insights and 

recommendations to support the ongoing efforts towards 

creating environmentally, socially, and economically 

sustainable communities. 

 

Methodology 

This study utilized a qualitative research design to gather 

and analyze data. The research approach involved 

conducting a thorough literature review to examine 

existing knowledge and insights on the subject of interest. 

This review helped establish a foundation for the study and 

identify key themes, concepts, and theories relevant to the 

research topic. 

In addition to the literature review, the study also employed 

the Delphi technique as a panel review method. The Delphi 

technique is a structured communication process that seeks 

to gather expert opinions and insights on a particular topic. 

It involves multiple rounds of surveys or questionnaires 

administered to a panel of experts in the field (Hsu, & 

Sandford 2007). Through these iterative rounds, the 

experts provide their perspectives, rate the importance or 

relevance of specific factors, and share their expert 

opinions. 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            54 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1. Delphi Processes by Zhang et al., (2022)

The sustainability indicators related to green policing were 

forecasted based on a constructed scenario and were 

subsequently validated through a Delphi approach 

involving a panel of environmental experts. The panel 

consisted of twelve (12) participants, including five Station 

Commanders, two Police Section Chiefs, two Coast Guard 

Commanders, and three Section Chiefs from the 

Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 

SOCCSKSARGEN. 

Results and Discussion 

In the initial round of data collection, a significant number 

of item responses were obtained from the selected group of 

experts, amounting to a total of 109 (Figure 2). These 

responses were carefully transcribed and analyzed to 

identify key trends and patterns related to green policing. 

Through a process of coding, the responses were organized 

and categorized based on their relevance to the overarching 

themes and concepts of green policing. This restructuring 

of the data was done to ensure coherence and congruency 

in the analysis and interpretation of the findings. 

 

 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            55 
 

 

Figure 2. Radar Chart of the Responses of Experts 

 

 

By transcribing and coding the item responses, common 

themes, recurring patterns, and important insights 

regarding green policing were determined. This process 

allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the expert 

opinions and perspectives on the topic. The large number 

of item responses generated in the first round of data 

collection signifies the richness and depth of the experts' 

input. It demonstrates the thoroughness and 

comprehensiveness of the study in capturing diverse 

perspectives and insights related to green policing.  

During the subsequent round of the study (Round 2), the 

experts were presented with the restructured responses for 

further review and analysis. The facilitator's objective was 

to extract more precise and detailed indicators from the 

experts' initial responses, refining the understanding of the 

key themes and patterns identified in the data. Out of the 

original 109 responses, a subset of forty-five (45) 

responses was selected for further examination and 

consideration. These refined responses would contribute to 

a more focused and comprehensive understanding of the 

indicators associated with green policing. Through the 

careful transcription, coding, and restructuring of the 

responses as seen in Figure 3, the researchers were able to 

extract valuable information and lay the foundation for 

further analysis and interpretation through codes. 

37

21

14

37

Station Commanders

Section Chiefs

Coast Guard
Commanders

DENR Department Heads



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            56 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 3. Patterns, Trends, and Indicators in Round 2 of Delphi 

 

After conducting a meticulous examination and 

comprehensive review of the responses provided by the 

experts, a total of thirty-five (35) indicators were identified 

as relevant indicators of Green Policing. These indicators 

were carefully transcribed by the researcher and further 

categorized into distinct themes based on the observed 

trends and patterns within the data. The resulting themes 

associated with the indicators are as follows: Green Police 

Operations, Green Behavior and Awareness, 

Environmental Law Enforcement, and Community 

Partnerships and Engagement. This categorization allows 

for a clearer understanding of the different aspects and 

dimensions encompassed by the concept of Green Policing. 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            57 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 4. Themes of Sustainable Green Policing 

 

During the final round (Round 3), the experts were engaged in a more focused and constructive manner, leading to the 

generation of concise and succinct responses. This iterative process aimed to involve the experts in the decision-making 

process, allowing them to actively participate in the analysis and design of the final research instrument. By incorporating the 

expertise and insights of the experts, the researcher sought to enhance the instrument's effectiveness and relevance. This 

approach aligns with the principles outlined by Keeney et al. (2011), emphasizing the importance of engaging experts in the 

decision-making process to ensure a comprehensive and well-informed outcome. 

In the final round, which marked final round, consensus was achieved among the experts. Through a process of discussion 

and deliberation, a state of homogeneity and consistency in their responses was attained, as highlighted by Graham et al. 

(2003). This collective agreement among the experts led to the generation of thirty (30) forecasted sustainability indicators of 

Green Policing. These forecasted indicators represent the shared perspectives and expert consensus on the key aspects and 

considerations of implementing Green Policing practices (Romualdo, 2022). 

 

 

 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            58 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 5. Forecasted Sustainability Indicators of Green Policing 

 

Conclusion and Recommendation 

The findings of this study have identified a comprehensive 

set of sustainability indicators for Green Policing in the 

SOCCSKSARGEN region. These forecasted indicators 

reflect the measures and initiatives that police officers can 

undertake to promote environmental sustainability within 

their operations and communities. The Green Policing 

sustainability indicators encompass various aspects such as 

resource conservation, waste management, renewable 

energy utilization, collaboration with stakeholders, 

environmental law enforcement, and community 

engagement. 

Based on these findings, it is recommended that law 

enforcement agencies in the SOCCSKSARGEN region 

incorporate these sustainability indicators into their Green 

Policing strategies. This can be achieved through the 

development and implementation of specific policies, 

guidelines, and training programs that align with the 

identified indicators. Additionally, close collaboration with 

relevant agencies, organizations, and stakeholders should 



Global Sustainability Research 

 Global Scientific Research            59 
 

be fostered to ensure the effective implementation of these 

initiatives. 

Furthermore, regular monitoring and evaluation of the 

progress made in implementing the sustainability 

indicators are crucial to assess the effectiveness of Green 

Policing efforts. This will help identify areas for 

improvement, refine strategies, and ensure the long-term 

sustainability of environmental initiatives within the public 

safety sector. 

Public awareness campaigns and community engagement 

activities should also be prioritized to promote a culture of 

environmental responsibility among both police officers 

and the wider community. Partnerships with organizations 

such as the Philippine Coast Guard and market 

organizations can be established to facilitate recycling 

programs and income-generating activities that contribute 

to environmental sustainability. 

By adopting and implementing these sustainability 

indicators of Green Policing, police officers in 

SOCCSKSARGEN can pave the way for fostering greener 

and safer communities, thus contributing significantly to 

forging a sustainable future. 

Acknowledgment.  The authors of this research work 

acknowledge the support and guidance of Dr. Rec E. Eguia, 

Dr. Prescillano D. Campado, Dr. Alfie Maria R. Custodio, 

Dr. Jinnifer D. Arroyo, and Dr. Cheryl Marie C. Cipriano 

Funding.  This research receives no grant from any 

funding agency in the public, private, or not-for-profit 

sectors. 

Contribution/Originality: This  research  contributes  to  

the  breadth  of  knowledge  by providing   a forecast of the  

indicators of environmental sustainability  in  public  safety 

through a Delphi technique.  As  an outcome of  this  

independent  and  original  work,   we  duly acknowledge  

all  the  sources  from which  the  ideas  have been derived. 

Declaration of Conflicting Interest.  The authors declare 

no conflicts of interest in the development of this research 

work. 

Availability of Data:  The authors confirm that the data 

supporting the findings of this study are available within 

the article and its Supplementary material. Raw data that 

support the findings of this study are available from the 

corresponding author, upon reasonable request. 

References 

Chapin III, F. S., Kofinas, G. P., & Folke, C. (Eds.). 

(2009). Principles of ecosystem stewardship: 

resilience-based natural resource management in 

a changing world. Springer Science & Business 

Media. 

Dean, T. J., & McMullen, J. S. (2007). Toward a theory of 

sustainable entrepreneurship: Reducing 

environmental degradation through 

entrepreneurial action. Journal of business 

venturing, 22(1), 50-76. 

Graham, B., Regehr, G., & Wright, J. G. (2003). Delphi as 

a method to establish 

consensus for diagnostic criteria. Journal of Clinical 

Epidemiology, 56(12), 1150–1156. 

Harris, J. M., & Roach, B. (2013). Environmental and 

natural resource economics: A contemporary 

approach. ME Sharpe. 

Hsu, C. C., & Sandford, B. A. (2007). The Delphi 

technique: making sense of consensus. Practical 

assessment, research, and evaluation, 12(1), 10. 

Keeney, S., McKenna, H., & Hasson, F. (2011). The Delphi 

technique in nursing and health research. John 

Wiley & Sons. 

Konyk, J. (2018). Green Policing : Recommended actions 

for an environmental 

sustainability plan for the Vancouver Police Department. 

1–62. 

Mensah, J. (2019). Sustainable development: Meaning, 

history, principles, pillars, and implications for 

human action: Literature review. Cogent social 

sciences, 5(1), 1653531. 

Romualdo, A. (2022). Prospect for green policing: 

Constructs and dimensions of environmental 

sustainability in the context of public 

safety. Global Sustainability Research, 1(2), 22-

29. 

United Nations Environment Programme. International 

Resource Panel. (2011). Decoupling natural 

resource use and environmental impacts from 

economic growth. UNEP/Earthprint. 

Zhang, C., Zhang, J., & Jiang, P. (2022). Assessing the risk 

of green building materials certification using the 

back-propagation neural network. Environment, 

Development and Sustainability, 24(5), 6925-

6952. 

 

 


