Climate change anxiety: a portrait of Portugal

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of socio-demographic and social psychological characteristics on climate change anxiety and pro-environmental behaviour. Design/methodology/approach The climate crisis presents a complex and pressing global challenge, with emerging evidence indicating substantial and multifaceted impacts on both physical and mental health. Climate change anxiety has been identified as a serious consequence of climate change. This study used a nationally representative sample to examine climate change anxiety’s prevalence and impact on Portuguese society. A total sample of 3,300 adults completed extensive online questionnaires. Findings The results of this study revealed that the prevalence of climate change anxiety is low among adults in Portugal. Age, education and income were negatively related to climate change anxiety. More direct experience and the impact of climate change were related to higher levels of climate change anxiety. Finally, climate change perceptions related to greater conservation behaviour through climate change anxiety, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms that shape more pro-environmental behaviour. Originality/value Understanding the role of socio-demographic and social psychological characteristics on climate change anxiety is fundamental to designing inclusive environmental policies and programmes that drive social change and address inequalities.