Perception of glacial retreat and climate change in Peruvian Andean communities: an interdisciplinary approach

Percepção do derretimento das geleiras e da mudança climática na população andina no Peru: uma abordagem interdisciplinar

Abstract

An interdisciplinary analysis of the perceptions of glacial retreat and climate change in Andean communities in Peru allows us to have a better understanding of the problem. The aim of the study is to propose an interdisciplinary approach and present the results of the psychological constructs evaluated. The results show a relationship between the perceptions of glacial retreat and the risk of climate change. Most people in the community perceive that glaciers will shrink in the future and are very concerned about the risks of climate change on a personal and social dimension. Awareness of glacier retreat and climate change impacts increases willingness to engage in adaptation and mitigation behaviours. Finally, the implications of the findings for risk communication are discussed and future lines of research are suggested.

Keywords:
Perception; glacial melt; climate change; Andean