Challenges to Environmental Perception: Demystifying Established Concepts

Ramos, Ricardo; Rodrigues, Maria José; Rodrigues, Isilda

http://hdl.handle.net/10198/35520

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Authors

Ramos, Ricardo

Rodrigues, Maria José

Rodrigues, Isilda

Abstract(s)

Climate change represents one of the greatest challenges of this century. However, how it is communicated can significantly influence public perception and willingness to act. Excessively alarmist news tends to generate a feeling of hopelessness and can demotivate the population instead of encouraging them to adopt mitigation measures. In this quantitative study, we developed a set of questions to assess participants' perceptions of pre-established concepts related to the environment. The results indicate that many respondents show a sense of pessimism, unaware of significant advances in the fight against climate change. Examples include the reduction of carbon emissions in Europe, the fact that we are the greenest generation of the last 50 years, and the decrease in mortality caused by natural disasters. Some of those interviewed said they were reconsidering the decision to have children due to the perception of an unpromising future. These findings highlight the need for more balanced climate education and communication, which, without minimizing the challenges, also highlight the progress and opportunities for a sustainable future.

Keywords

Climate Education Literacy Perceptions Information Sustainable Development Goals

URI

http://hdl.handle.net/10198/35520

Citation

Ramos, Ricardo; Rodrigues, Maria José; Rodrigues, Isilda (2025). Challenges to Environmental Perception: Demystifying Established Concepts. Journal of Lifestyle and SDGs Review. EISSN 2965-730X. 5, p. 1-16