Environment

Rapid population growth and technological advances have made it possible for human behavior to change the global environment in major ways, but not all of these changes are positive.

Psychologists are searching for ways to change destructive behaviors and embrace beneficial ones, such as recycling, using public transportation and enhancing energy efficiency. Their research explores people’s attitudes toward environmental issues, what factors determine those attitudes and how those attitudes affect behavior.

Adapted from the Encyclopedia of Psychology

What You Can Do

Environmental Psychology Makes a Better World
Climate and environmental psychologists use psychological science to improve the interactions of people with the world around us.
Society's Grand Challenges - Global Climate Change (PDF, 1.0MB)
Postgrad growth area: Environmental psychology
Psychologists are increasingly at the forefront of efforts to protect the planet.
Psychology and Global Climate Change:
Addressing a Multi-faceted Phenomenon and Set of Challenges
The task force examined psychology’s role in understanding and addressing global climate change, including efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Building Resilient Communities in the Face of Climate Change
Climate change has the potential for severe impacts, but communities can develop approaches and practices that promote resilience.