Public perceptions: The role of Individuals, societies, and states in managing the environmental challenges – cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives: The major challenges of the current century are the rapid changes in the climate, weather conditions and the environment. Governments, individuals, and societies need to work together to tackle the challenges posed to the environment in recent times. The literature highlights the urgent need to act however, little is known about public perception and their responsibilities. This study aimed to explore the public perception of the role of individuals, societies, and states in managing environmental challenges. Methods: In this cross-section study, a well-established English language questionnaire was developed. A total of 1000 questionnaires were distributed, and the response rate was 852 (85.2%). Among 852 participants, 488 (57.28 %) were males and 364 (42.72%) were females. The survey encompassed students 681 (80%), teachers 85 (10%); government officials 34 (4%), shop owners, merchants 25 (3%), doctors and engineers 17 (2%) and housewives 10 (1%). The questionnaires were analyzed, frequencies and percentages were calculated, and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The results revealed that 621 (72.8%) of the individuals suggested that states adopt sustainable environmental policies; 639 (75%) of the respondents were in favor that individuals personally playing a role in tackling climate change; 699 (82%) agreed that there should be a bottom-up approach while dealing with the environmental problems. Moreover, 605 (71%) believed that the young generation is more inclined than the previous generation for global climate action, 542 (63.61 %) were in favor that civil society galvanized to enshrine environmental protection in the state constitution, and 554 (65%) suggested that national and international efforts cannot make a difference until and unless individuals don’t play a role in reducing the environmental pollution. The majority of the respondents were in favor of adopting the constructive approach to managing environmental challenges. Conclusions: These days the environmental issues have become a grave concern. This role cannot be performed only by the states, but the role of societies and individuals is also of utmost importance. A large number of people suggested a bottom-up approach required to deal while managing environmental challenges. The importance of individual, societal and collective efforts are essential in managing environmental challenges.

Keywords

• Environment
• Climate change
• Bottom-up approach
• Sustainable development