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Emotional Responses of Conservation Researchers to Climate Change and Its Influencing Factors

Abstract:

Climate change has well-documented psychological consequences for society. However, the emotional experiences of frontline conservation professionals remain underexplored. As key knowledge producers and participants in decision-making processes, conservation researchers play a crucial role in shaping and implementing adaptation and mitigation efforts, which are pivotal for effective climate planning. Understanding their emotional responses is essential for enhancing the success of these strategies and supporting climate action. This study aims to identify the most prevalent emotions experienced by conservation researchers regarding climate change across various countries and to examine the qualitative and quantitative factors shaping these emotions. An online survey was conducted with 362 participants from 98 academic and research institutions, utilising both closed and open-ended questions to capture demographic data, climate knowledge, stances on mitigation and adaptation, and emotional responses. Data analysis revealed that feelings of powerlessness, guilt, and concern were most frequently reported, driven by a profound sense of inability to halt climate change, frustration with perceived inaction by governments and industries, and self-assessed personal shortcomings. Age and stances on climate adaptation were identified as primary factors influencing emotional responses, particularly among individuals aged 20–50 and 61–70, with opposition to adaptation correlating with stronger emotional reactions. Demographic factors such as region, place of residence, and mitigation stances played a minor role. These findings provide valuable insights into the psychological well-being of conservation researchers related to climate change.