Perception of climate change by the population of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

Abstract

The article analyzes the results of studies combining sociological and meteorological data conducted in different climatic zones and regions of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The developed climate change perception index makes it possible to measure the level of population sensitivity to climate changes in the region, in particular, changes in temperature and precipitation in summer and winter. Based on the results obtained, conditional levels of climate change perception were determined: “high” - 60% and more correct answers; “Average” - from 40% to 59%; “Low” - from 39% or less. The study shows a different perception by the population of climate change depending on the place of residence and the characteristics of climatic trends, which does not always coincide with instrumental meteorological data. The data obtained show that there are no significant differences in the level of perception of climate change among urban and rural residents, almost all of them correspond to the average level. First of all, respondents showed high sensitivity to changes in summer precipitation and winter air temperatures. Perhaps this is due to the historically formed features of the environmental consciousness of the republic’s residents, when in the conditions of a short summer one or another change in precipitation is more acute.