Public Perceptions of Climate Change and their Influence on Adaptive and Mitigative Behaviors in Sargodha City

Abstract

This study assess how public perception influences climate change adaptation and mitigation behaviors in Sargodha City, Pakistan. Rapid urbanization and limited institutional capacity pose challenges for climate responsiveness. The study employs the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to examine how awareness, knowledge, and concern shape environmentally responsible behavior. A cross-sectional survey of 300 residents was conducted, focusing on their awareness, knowledge, and emotional concern regarding climate change and its impact on behavior. Findings indicate that awareness alone shows a weak link to behavioral change, while climate change concern (worry) strongly predicts adaptive and mitigative behavior. Knowledge also plays a role but explains only a small variance in behavior. Emotional motivation emerges as a more effective behavioral driver than factual awareness. The study urges a shift from awareness-only campaigns to emotionally engaging, context-specific interventions. It recommends grassroots climate strategies that combine motivational triggers with institutional support to foster sustainable urban resilience.