Exploring the Attitudes Toward Climate Change and Pro-Climate-Change Behavior Among People With Sensory Disabilities in the Middle East and North Africa

Abstract

Global ecosystems, including those of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, are severely threatened by the climate crisis. However, there are limited studies on climate change awareness among people with sensory disabilities, especially as climate change affects them as they navigate their daily activities. Guided by Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior, 542 participants with sensory impairments in the MENA region completed the Awareness of Climate Change and Pro-Environmental Behavior Willingness Questionnaire. We performed confirmatory factor analysis and multivariate analysis of variance to understand the influence of demographics on awareness and behavior. The instrument demonstrated robust validity and reliability, with appropriate fit indices and mean scores indicating participants’ ambivalence toward awareness and pro-climate-change behaviors, as well as notable demographic variations. The findings underscore the need for targeted education and climate change activism, as prescribed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).