Public perception of climate change impacts and sectoral adaptation in Romania

Public perception of climate change plays a crucial role in adaptation efforts, shaping both individual actions towards environmentally responsible behavior and support for public policies. This study examines public attitudes on climate change across key sectors in Romanian, in the post-COVID-19 pandemic context to inform adaptation measures. As part of the revision of the National Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change, a nationwide survey was conducted to assess public perceptions of climate change and related adaptation measures. Using a structured questionnaire, responses were analysed and clustered for priority sectors, considered most vulnerable to the climate change impacts (e.g., Agriculture, Energy, Transport, Forestry, Tourism). Findings highlighted agriculture, water resources, and public health as the most vulnerable, and pointed out to targeted measures such as energy efficiency, sustainable resource management, healthcare improvements and infrastructure modernization. The results also revealed socio-demographic patterns, such as lower awareness among younger, middle to lower income groups and a stronger connection between parental status and environmentally responsible behaviours. • Investigates the public perception on climate change impacts, adaptation options and environmentally responsible behaviours. • Comprehensive national survey to support the revision of the Romanian National Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change. • Examines sector-specific climate change adaptation measures in the Romanian economy (e.g., energy, transport, urban systems, tourism). • Highlights agriculture, water resources, and public health as the most vulnerable sectors to climate change. • Emphasises the awareness gap among diffrent groups and the role of children in engaging their families in ecological matters.