Assessing the Level of Awareness in Libyan Society of the Importance of Vegetation Cover and Its Relationship to Climate Change

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness within Libyan society regarding the importance of vegetation cover and the role of afforestation in addressing environmental challenges, particularly climate change and ecosystem degradation. The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach, reviewing theoretical and conceptual frameworks from previous literature and administering a field survey to a sample of 536 respondents across various age groups and geographical regions in Libya. The results revealed a relatively high level of awareness concerning the risks of climate change; approximately 57% of respondents reported feeling severe concern about the phenomenon, while 82% acknowledged human activity as its primary cause. Furthermore, the study indicated a strong consensus (81%) on the importance of trees in combating climate change, specifically through their role in improving air quality and mitigating temperatures, which directly impacts human health and daily activities. The findings also uncovered a high perception of shared responsibility, as 93.9% of respondents believe that afforestation is a responsibility shared between the government and the community, emphasizing the citizen's role in protecting trees and vegetation. Regarding the readiness to participate, 88.4% expressed willingness to provide financial support, and 91.6% indicated a desire to participate in afforestation campaigns even if they incurred some costs, reflecting a positive trend toward proactive environmental behavior. In contrast, the results highlighted barriers restricting community participation, primarily time constraints and a lack of information regarding afforestation campaigns; more than 57% reported that the scarcity of information constitutes a fundamental obstacle to effective engagement. Additionally, 84.5% expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of afforestation in urban and rural areas, viewing existing efforts as insufficient to counter climate change. Based on these findings, the study recommends the necessity of enhancing media and awareness campaigns by leveraging social media platforms and visual media to raise awareness and encourage public participation. It also emphasizes the importance of enacting and enforcing strict laws to protect vegetation cover, expanding green spaces in cities, establishing accurate environmental databases, supporting grassroots initiatives, and providing incentives that help transform positive intentions into sustainable environmental behavior.