Climate Risk Perception and Sustainable Behavior: The Mediating Role of Environmental Concern
Abstract
Climate change has intensified global attention toward environmental risks and the need for sustainable human behavior. Climate risk perception refers to individuals’ subjective judgment about the likelihood and severity of climate related hazards such as floods, heatwaves, droughts, and ecological degradation. Sustainable behavior refers to actions undertaken by individuals to reduce environmental harm, including energy conservation, waste reduction, sustainable consumption, and eco friendly transportation choices. While climate risk perception is often assumed to directly influence sustainable behavior, empirical evidence suggests that this relationship is complex and frequently mediated by psychological factors. This study examines the relationship between climate risk perception and sustainable behavior, focusing on the mediating role of environmental concern.
Environmental concern refers to the degree to which individuals are aware of environmental problems and are emotionally and cognitively engaged with environmental protection issues. It reflects both awareness and value based orientation toward ecological sustainability. Environmental concern is considered a key motivational factor that transforms risk perception into actual behavioral responses.
This study employs a quantitative research design using survey data collected from university students and environmentally conscious individuals. Structural Equation Modeling using SmartPLS is applied to test direct and indirect relationships among variables. The results indicate that climate risk perception significantly influences sustainable behavior. Furthermore, environmental concern plays a significant mediating role in this relationship.
The study contributes to environmental psychology, sustainability science, and behavioral research by explaining how cognitive risk appraisal translates into action through environmental concern. The findings provide practical implications for policymakers, educators, and environmental campaign designers. Future research should explore additional mediators such as perceived behavioral control, social norms, and environmental identity.
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