Consumers' attitudes towards water scarcity and eco-friendly products in Turkey: a psychological distance perspective

As the problem of water scarcity becomes increasingly acute, ways to engage people in the combat against water scarcity are gaining importance. Despite previous research has explored the role of psychological distance in attitudes toward climate change; water scarcity has not been adequately examined. To address this, the study aims to investigate the role of psychological distance in people's willingness to act on water scarcity and pay more for eco-friendly products. Additionally, the role of perceived impact and perceived responsibility in this process will be discussed. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 392 respondents via an online questionnaire. Structural equation modelling results indicate that temporal distance and social distance, as well as perceived impact and perceived responsibility are relevant for combating water scarcity. The holistic perspective presented in the study is important for revealing the mechanisms that can be useful for involving people in solutions to water scarcity.