PUBLIC AWARENESS AND PERCEPTIONS OF CLIMATE CHANGE: DIFFERENCES IN CONCERN ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE WEST MEDITERRANEAN REGION OF TURKEY

This study was aimed at determining perception and awareness levels about climate change in three city centers located in the West Mediterranean Region of Turkey and identified differences in public perceptions and knowledge about regional climate change. The study utilized a questionnaire method to obtain data. The results found that approximately half of the participants had inadequate climate change knowledge. In particular, knowledge levels regarding climate change adaptation were comparatively low. Women were more concerned about climate changed compared to men. Additionally, primary and high school graduates and married individuals were also more concerned. Age and income were not determining variables. There were no significant differences in terms of gender, age, income and educational status apart from marital status as to whether or not adaptation to climate change will be achieved. There are varying levels of awareness among the public regarding climate change, and thus it is especially important to organize outreach programs supported by media to increase climate change adaptation knowledge levels. Institutions need to improve their ability to promote public awareness and knowledge about climate change in order to reach a larger proportion of the public.