Public Perception of Climate Change Impact on Living Conditions in a Cold Region (the case of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia))

Based on the materials of a sociological study conducted in August-October 2023, the characteristics of the perception by residents of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) of changes in the local climate and natural environment are analyzed. Residents of the republic notice significant changes in the climate, such as shifts in the onset of seasons, changes in air temperature, precipitation levels, and windiness. The population is concerned about the increasing frequency and intensity of natural phenomena caused by climate change: wildfires, thawing permafrost, destruction of roads, increasing number of mosquitoes in summer and an increasing incidence of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, ice on roads in winter. Local residents also notice appearance of new species of birds, insects, plants, animals and fish not typical for the region. Negative assessments of the impact of climate change on traditional agriculture in Yakutia predominate.