Understanding the Ugandans Perceptions of Climate Change originating from Air Transport Carbon Emissions

Abstract: It is undisputable that tourism has grown since the last decades and is the main source of foreign exchange for many developing markets. This growth is attributed to the technological advancement in the aviation industry which has eased transportation from one region to another. However, tourism contribution to carbon dioxide emissions through air transport is alarming with the sector contributing 40% of the overall carbon print in that if immediate remedies are not undertaken the earth system may go in a state where it may never recover and yet these remedies need to be undertaken by all global citizens. The aim of the thesis was to understand Ugandans’ perceptions concerning climate change originating from air transport carbon emissions. Qualitative research method was employed and open ended interviews were used.  Thirty respondents were purposively sampled consisting of five categories. The findings revealed that the interviewed Ugandans have little knowledge about climate change originating from air travel and also possessed negative attitudes concerning reducing their air travel reductions in order to mitigate climate change  moreover these were also enhanced  by unrealistic cultural values. Therefore, if any tangible reduction is to be achieved in climate change emanating from aviation industry in Uganda there is need for realistic measures from both the governments and aviation sector so as to encourage individual behavioral changes.