Understanding Eco-Anxiety and its Role in Shaping Sustainable Behaviour in Mumbai's Suburban Regions.

Abstract

Eco-anxiety is a psychological response to environmental degradation. It has become a relevant topic of discussion with respect to climate change and its effects on our well-being. This study explores the role of eco-anxiety in shaping sustainable behaviours in the suburban regions of Mumbai. Along with focusing on its relationship with climate change, solastalgia, and income disparities, this research aims to understand how generational differences (Gen Z vs. Millennials) and income groups have an influence on levels of eco-anxiety and sustainable behaviour. The research methodology entails administering a Google Form-based survey to 178 participants using established scales like the Hoggs Eco Anxiety Scale (HEAS) and the short version of the Sustainability Consciousness Questionnaire (SCQ-S). A 20-item questionnaire was prepared by the researchers and validated through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). Various statistical methods such as the Mann-Whitney U Test, Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) were applied to analyse the data.