Public perceptions of the marine environment and behavioral intentions to preserve it: The case of three coastal cities in Greece

摘要: Abstract This study explored public perceptions of the marine environment in three coastal communities Greece and further investigated intentions to adopt behaviors that contribute conservation. We used Theory Planned Behavior (TPB) psychological determinants behavioral intentions. The findings indicated respondents have positive attitudes, moderate knowledge issues, they value for multiple ecosystem services it provides. Litter pollution from industry were considered as most important threats, followed by fishing farming. Participants suggested informing giving prominence environmental education can conservation efforts. They felt research centers scientific community more competent than governmental authorities private sector concerning management protection environment. Intention was influenced normative considerations, attitudes toward biodiversity perceived control beliefs. results may: 1) help inform policymakers improve resource towards a sustainable relationship between people sea; 2) support development strategies fit social preferences, needs, priorities increase likelihood support; 3) spatial planning efforts uncover intrinsic complexity societal interactions with wish promote behavior change through communication deliver messages focus on enhancing beliefs, corresponding attitudes.