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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Colombians Towards Biodiversity Regarding COP16

Author

Listed:
  • Francisco Javier Bedoya-Rodríguez

    (Grupo de Investigación en Ecología y Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Maestría en Educación Ambiental y Desarrollo Sostenible y Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia
    Grupo de Investigación Dimensiones Territoriales, Fundación Universitaria de Popayán, Popayán 1900, Colombia)

  • Jonathan S. Pelegrín

    (Grupo de Investigación en Ecología y Conservación de la Biodiversidad, Maestría en Educación Ambiental y Desarrollo Sostenible y Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Aura Cristina Gutiérrez-Santana

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Fredy Alejandro Giraldo-Marín

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Alexander Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Libia Carolina Pinzón-Camargo

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Jeffrey Hurtado-Martínez

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Cindy del Carmen Álvarez-Martínez

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Gigliola Yudit Perdomo-Vergara

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • María Fernanda Romero

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

  • Ninfa Rosa Mejía-Florez

    (Programa de Doctorado en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 7600, Colombia)

Abstract

Research on Colombians’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of biodiversity in the context of COP16 is vital due to Colombia’s significant biodiversity, which comprises about 10% of the world’s total. Understanding public awareness and attitudes towards conservation is essential for effective policy development. This study aims to fill existing research gaps by providing empirical data on how citizens perceive biodiversity and their responsibilities regarding international agreements like COP16. Previous studies have often neglected the impact of significant global events on local populations, making this research particularly relevant. The findings will help policymakers identify misconceptions and areas needing improvement, thereby enhancing conservation initiatives and public engagement. A recent survey revealed that while 80% of Colombians view biodiversity as critical, only a small percentage recognize it as a major global crisis, indicating a disconnect between awareness and action. Many citizens express a willingness to contribute to conservation efforts; however, a significant portion lacks knowledge on how to do so effectively. This study underscores the necessity for educational strategies that are adapted to Colombia’s heterogeneous cultural contexts with the aim of engaging communities. The objective is to galvanize support for biodiversity conservation by enhancing the bond between citizens and their natural heritage.

Suggested Citation

  • Francisco Javier Bedoya-Rodríguez & Jonathan S. Pelegrín & Aura Cristina Gutiérrez-Santana & Fredy Alejandro Giraldo-Marín & Alexander Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez & Libia Carolina Pinzón-Camargo & Jeffrey Hur, 2025. "Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Colombians Towards Biodiversity Regarding COP16," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-21, February.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:5:p:1798-:d:1595843
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bernardo, Fátima & Loupa-Ramos, Isabel & Carvalheiro, Joana, 2021. "Are biodiversity perception and attitudes context dependent? A comparative study using a mixed-method approach," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 109(C).
    2. Mary Douglas & Aaron Wildavsky, 1982. "How Can We Know the Risks We Face? Why Risk Selection Is a Social Process," Risk Analysis, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 2(2), pages 49-58, June.
    3. Halkos, George & Matsiori, Steriani, 2022. "Understanding the public’s perceptions of the importance, management, and conservation of biodiversity," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 75(C), pages 262-270.
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