How Perceived Climate Vulnerabilities and Concern for Environmental Issues Shape Migration Intentions: A Study in Utah

• In Event: 50620 - Section on Environmental Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 5: Environmental Exposures and Beliefs

Abstract

This study seeks to examine the perceptions of climatic vulnerabilities among Utah residents and their concerns over environmental issues, particularly the desiccation of the Great Salt Lake. Additionally, it seeks to elucidate the influence of their climate vulnerabilities and environmental concerns on their migration choices from Utah. We employ two significant migration theories—push-pull theory and the new economics of labor migration theory (NELM)—as a framework to evaluate our study hypothesis. This study employs the 2023 Utah People and Environment Pool (UPEP) statewide survey data to investigate our aims. We aim to deliver significant findings that assist policymakers in establishing sustainable policies and strategies for the citizens of Utah, the state, and the environment.

Authors

• Mufti Nadimul Quamar Ahmed, Utah State University

• Jennifer E. Givens, Utah State University