Promoting Climate‐Friendly Behaviour Under Cognitive and Coordination Constraints: A Multi‐Level Framework for Sustainable Development Governance

ABSTRACT Despite widespread concern about climate change, climate‐friendly behaviour remains difficult to sustain in practice. This article argues that the core challenge lies less in insufficient motivation than in the cognitive and coordination demands imposed by prevailing decision environments. Drawing on insights from behavioural science, sustainability research and governance studies, it develops a diagnostic multi‐level framework for assessing when climate action becomes behaviourally feasible under real‐world conditions. The framework identifies individual, social and institutional enablers that reduce cognitive burdens, facilitate coordination and stabilise behaviour over time. Climate‐friendly behaviour is thus conceptualised as the outcome of behaviourally realistic decision environments rather than of isolated individual choices. The article concludes by outlining implications for climate policy and governance, emphasising the importance of integrated approaches that align behavioural, social and institutional conditions to support SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).