Stimulating Environmental and Health Protection Through Utilizing Statistical Methods for Climate Resilience and Policy Integration

Sanaa Kaddoura (), Rafiq Hijazi, Nadia Dahmani and Reem Nassar
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Sanaa Kaddoura: Departmen of Computing and Applied Technology, College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 144534, United Arab Emirates
Rafiq Hijazi: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 144534, United Arab Emirates
Nadia Dahmani: Department of Information Systems and Technology Management, College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 144534, United Arab Emirates
Reem Nassar: Departmen of Computing and Applied Technology, College of Technological Innovation, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 144534, United Arab Emirates

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 3, 1-20

Abstract: Climate change, a critical global challenge, is evident in rising global temperatures, shifting precipitation trends, and extreme weather events, including floods, heatwaves, and rising sea levels. The impacts of climate change not only endanger physical health but also affect mental well-being, particularly among populations experiencing frequent or severe climate-related events. Understanding individual perceptions of climate risks and adaptive capacities is crucial for developing strategies that promote health resilience and environmental protection. This paper examines how risk perceptions, direct experiences with extreme weather, and perceived adaptive capacities influence climate change protection measures and support for relevant policies. Data were gathered from 291 respondents in the United Arab Emirates using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, Spearman correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis to determine key predictors of policy support. The results indicate that age is positively correlated with policy support ( ρ = 0.16, p = 0.001), while gender also plays a role, with women showing greater risk perception and stronger policy support than men. In contrast, formal education and employment status do not significantly impact policy endorsement or climate adaptation behaviors. These findings suggest that awareness-based interventions alone may be insufficient to drive climate action. Instead, policies should leverage older individuals’ experiences, enhance workplace and community-based climate engagement, and prioritize hands-on, action-oriented education to bridge the gap between climate knowledge and adaptive behavior.

Keywords: climate change policy; climate risk perception; extreme weather events; sustainability and adaptation; perceived adaptive capacity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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