Are residents prepared for the effects of climate change? A survey-based study in Tâmega e Sousa (Mainland Portugal)

This study aims to assess public perceptions of climate change and the adaptive capacity of communities in the NUTS III Tâmega e Sousa, sub-region of northern Portugal—a territory highly vulnerable to climate-related risks. Understanding local awareness, concerns, and behavioral responses is crucial for designing effective climate adaptation strategies and enhancing community resilience in the face of increasing extreme weather events. A structured questionnaire was administered to 391 residents between January and March 2024, following a pilot test and expert validation. The survey evaluated climate change awareness, perceived risks, preparedness, and support for adaptation measures. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests, were used to identify group differences. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to synthesize response patterns and identify key dimensions of adaptive behavior. The study revealed high awareness of climate change impacts (over 90%) but low perceived readiness, with only 38.6% believing current efforts are adequate. Women and individuals with higher education showed greater concern and engagement. Economic limitations were a major barrier, with only 16.9% feeling financially capable of adaptation. The results provide valuable reflections for policymakers aiming to enhance regional resilience by aligning public engagement with adaptive strategies through targeted education and support mechanisms will be crucial for ensuring sustainable adaptation efforts in the NUTS III Tâmega e Sousa. These findings also highlight a disconnect between awareness and action. This is one of the first studies to empirically evaluate public adaptive capacity to climate change in the Tâmega e Sousa.