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Pandemic-Induced Shifts in Climate Change Perception and Energy Consumption Behaviors: A Cross-Country Analysis of Belgium, Italy, Romania, and Sweden

Author

Listed:
  • Ioana Ancuta Iancu

    (Aero-Thermo-Mechanics Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium)

  • Patrick Hendrick

    (Aero-Thermo-Mechanics Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium)

  • Dan Doru Micu

    (Department of Electrotechnics and Measurements, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania)

  • Adrian Cote

    (Surgical Department, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania)

Abstract

This research explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer behavior and preferences related to household energy consumption through actions to fight climate change in Belgium, Romania, Italy, and Sweden. Using data from two Eurobarometer surveys conducted in 2019 and 2021, the study examines shifts in climate change perception, actions to combat climate change, and the influence of socio-economic and demographic variables on these actions. Depending on the country, the findings reveal significant pandemic-induced changes in public perceptions of climate change and personal actions to combat it. Age, gender, and education level were found to influence climate change actions. Financial constraints also significantly influenced the adoption of energy-efficient behaviors. Our research enriches existing knowledge by exploring the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on climate change perceptions and actions across diverse European countries, shedding light on the interplay between global crises and sustainability. The research methodology, including chi-square tests, logistic regression, and effect size measurements, provides a robust framework for understanding how economic factors and consumer behaviors are contributing to the development of effective energy policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Ioana Ancuta Iancu & Patrick Hendrick & Dan Doru Micu & Adrian Cote, 2023. "Pandemic-Induced Shifts in Climate Change Perception and Energy Consumption Behaviors: A Cross-Country Analysis of Belgium, Italy, Romania, and Sweden," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(20), pages 1-24, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:20:p:14679-:d:1256709
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