Quantitative research into barriers and drivers for desealing among citizens

This quantitative study by Ghent University investigates barriers and drivers for desealing and regreening among citizens, with a specific focus on private outdoor spaces and public space desealing acceptance in Flemish urban contexts.

Flanders is one of the most sealed regions in Europe, with 15.3% of its territory paved. One-third of this sealed surface is privately owned, making homeowners a key target group for desealing actions. Although awareness of climate impacts is relatively high, the target of 1 m² desealing per person per year is not being met. Existing research on desealing is scarce. This study addresses this gap using three theoretical frameworks: Theory of planned behaviour (TPB), Protection motivation theory (PMT) and Value belief norm theory (VBN), focusing on 3 research questions: - How do citizens differ in their acceptance of public space desealing, depending on the type of space (parking lane, traffic lane, footpath)? - Which factors influence the intention to deseal private outdoor spaces? - Which factors influence citizens’ acceptance of civic responsibility for desealing? What motivates or discourages people from taking action? The study demonstrates that psychological and moral factors are more influential than demographic or risk-based factors in shaping both acceptance and behavioural intentions around desealing. Citizens show substantial openness to public desealing and moderate support for civic responsibility, but private desealing intention remains low. Tailored communication, barrier-reducing measures, and positive storytelling are key to encouraging private action. Full report in Dutch, with executive summary in English.