Is climate change relevant? Mainstreaming the dialogue on ecosystems and their services for adaptation and mitigation in Amman, Jordan: a survey of a societal segment

Abstract In cities across the Middle East, meaningful dialogue on climate change between planning experts and citizens remains largely absent. This disconnect hinders mutual learning between experts and communities, excludes community knowledge from planning processes, and perpetuates both epistemic and climate injustices. This study addresses this gap by asking: (1) how do urban residents in Amman, Jordan value urban ecosystems and their services? (2) How do they perceive climate change and its local impacts? (3) What gaps exist between expert-driven climate planning and public understanding, and how might these be bridged? An online survey was conducted with 228 respondents representing a societal segment of Amman’s population. The 30-question instrument covered six thematic areas: perceptions of urban ecosystems; the loss of an urban stream and park; climate change and its impacts on Amman; adaptation and mitigation actions; current and preferred future climate actions; exposure to climate change information; and, prioritization of challenges relative to climate change. Findings reveal ambivalences, disjuncts, and contradictions in public perceptions. While urban ecosystems are broadly valued, respondents expressed relative indifference toward the loss of two major urban ecological assets. Climate change is generally understood as an abstract concept, yet respondents struggled to connect this understanding to the tangible impacts experienced locally. Moreover, despite limited awareness of the Greater Amman Municipality’s climate plans and scepticism about its capacity, the Municipality is still perceived as the primary actor in climate action. These inconsistencies suggest a critical absence of authentic dialogue. I argue that effective climate action requires more than top-down strategies, it demands genuine dialogue that fosters shared responsibility and builds time-binding relationships between planning institutions and communities. Only through such inclusive engagement can cities in the Middle East advance equitable and context-sensitive climate resilience.