Understanding of Climate Change Awareness in Afghanistan: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Tawfiqullah Muradi and Vikram Sandhu

Climate change poses a significant threat to ecologically fragile and politically complex regions, such as Afghanistan. Despite its vulnerability to environmental degradation, droughts, and extreme weather events, public awareness and understanding of climate change remain limited in Afghan society. This study presents an empirical investigation into climate change awareness among Afghan citizens, utilizing a structured survey and quantitative analysis. A sample of 484 respondents was collected from four regions in Afghanistan: Kabul, Herat, Mazar, and Kunduz. The study employs the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique, using AMOS-24, to examine the impact of awareness, green products, and government policies on citizens' intentions and behaviors related to climate change. The findings show that green products affect the public's awareness of climate change, as well as the overall level of awareness among respondents. Limited exposure to government policies may reduce their impact on raising public awareness. Additionally, green products have a much greater influence than government regulations related to climate change. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating climate education into national curricula, enhancing media outreach, and implementing community-specific awareness campaigns, providing policy insights for environmental management and sustainable development in Afghanistan.

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