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Unlocking Climate Action: A Systematic Review of Pathways to Climate‐Friendly Cities Through Behavioral Change

Author

Listed:
  • Naghmeh Mohammadpourlima
  • Mikael Nygård
  • Mehdi P. Heris

Abstract

Maintaining planetary borders is crucial to prevent significant Earth system shifts. Climate change, primarily driven by carbon emissions, necessitates reducing urban carbon footprints. Cities contribute significantly to emissions, and citizens play a crucial role in creating ecologically sustainable cities by changing attitudes. This systematic literature review aims to identify effective strategies for motivating citizen participation in climate policy implementation and fostering positive attitudes toward climate policies to achieve carbon‐neutral cities. It analyzes scholarly works that discuss strategies designed to change citizens' attitudes and behaviors to foster eco‐social awareness and engage them in alignment with existing climate policies. The results highlight the necessity for a multifaceted strategy that includes technological, behavioral, community‐based, and policy‐driven approaches to tackle climate change effectively. It also shows that there is no one‐size‐fits‐all response; therefore, more research on citizens' preferences based on past experiences and geographic locations is essential.

Suggested Citation

  • Naghmeh Mohammadpourlima & Mikael Nygård & Mehdi P. Heris, 2025. "Unlocking Climate Action: A Systematic Review of Pathways to Climate‐Friendly Cities Through Behavioral Change," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(S1), pages 517-544, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:s1:p:517-544
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.70022
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    References listed on IDEAS

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