Community awareness, perception, and perceived behaviors regarding the impacts of advanced technology on the environment among residents of the eastern region, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Introduction: Technology is a major and indispensable part of everyone's life, but the negative utilization of advanced technology has caused numerous global environmental problems, such as declining biodiversity, climate change, ozone depletion, overpopulation, and hazardous waste. The current study primarily aims to assess environmental awareness perceptions and perceived behaviors held by the community toward the Impacts of Advanced Technology on the Environment.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study design was conducted among 310 residents of the three administrative areas of Al-Ahsa (Al-Hofuf, Al-Mubaraz, and Al-Gourah) in eastern Saudi Arabia from January to February 2024 with a response rate of 80.7%. A researcher-developed questionnaire consisting of four sections was utilized with a Cronbach's alpha test result of (0.81). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 24, which included descriptive statistics, chi-square, and multivariate logistic regression. Crude and adjusted odds ratios were reported with corresponding 95% confidence interval estimates; statistical significance was set at an alpha less than 0.05.

Results: More than half of the study participants exhibited a relatively good awareness level and a positive perception, especially males, younger respondents, those with bachelor's degrees, and urban residents. Multivariate analysis showed that younger respondents with high education levels adjusted with good levels of awareness were more likely to develop positive perceptions toward the impacts of advanced technology on the environment. In addition, we observed that the participants with positive perceptions and good awareness were more likely to donate their equipment when not in use and use alternatives to technology. Awareness and positive perceptions motivate them to practice responsible behaviors toward the environment.

Conclusion: There is a need for education and promotion programs to be implemented in the community to promote concern for the environment, encourage favorable perceptions to shape their practices and prepare them to continuously practice environmentally friendly activities.