Psychology Can Help Tackle Climate Change, Says Expert

Main Category: Psychology / Psychiatry
Also Included In: Water - Air Quality / Agriculture
Article Date: 29 Sep 2007 - 16:00 PDT

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Environmental psychology looks at the relationships between people and the natural and man-made environment, and can play a vital role in helping to tackle climate change and its impacts, according to an industry expert.

"Environmental psychologists have practical and valuable expertise and knowledge about the interactions of people with their environment. This can make a significant contribution to addressing climate change," said Associate Professor, Dr Joseph Reser, at Griffith University.

Dr Reser argues that environmental psychologists can help to design and implement effective behaviour change strategies.

"To protect the environment we need a more genuine focus on people, this involves understanding what moves and motivates people, both individually and collectively, to change their behaviour and their attitudes" Dr Reser said.

"You also need to identify and address barriers to change and how everyday behaviours and lifestyles impact on the environment.

"Individual behaviour, as well as institutional change initiatives, must be part of the social, economic and political response to climate change. We are urging governments and organisations to consider engaging psychology as part of the solution."

Dr Reser and the Australian Psychological Society will release a position statement, titled: 'Psychology and the Natural Environment,' at this week's annual national conference in Brisbane.

Australian Psychological Society