(Re) growing plant awareness: A Delphi study

Abstract

Societal Impact StatementWithout a robust construct, it is currently difficult for researchers to systematically assess and facilitate a societal shift toward greater plant awareness. Using a Delphi study, we take a first step towards such construct by developing a definition and testable dimensions. This paper proposes a first expert validated definition and three distinct dimensions that allow researchers to assess plant awareness and to identify and compare key influences on the construct across different socio‐cultural groups. With this improved framework, research can support initiatives to promote plant awareness in society, a critical step in addressing challenges such as the climate crisis.Summary Research on plant blindness, plant awareness disparity, and plant awareness is currently separated using different terminologies. Having different terms for the same construct is disadvantageous for research, as ambiguous constructs can lead to important research being overlooked. In this study, we aim to provide a solution to this challenge by applying a Delphi study to integrate previous concepts into the new comprehensive construct of plant awareness. Delphi is a state‐of‐the‐art method for reaching reliable expert consensus on multidisciplinary issues with its key features of anonymity, iterative questioning and feedback. Focusing on the methodology, we provide a transparent, and detailed, overview of how we applied this method to reach consensus on the plant awareness construct. As an outcome of our Delphi study, we provide an expert validated definition of plant awareness that is based on previous constructs, research, and expert consensus. This definition constitutes three key dimensions: attention, understanding, and attitudes. Experts found consensus on these three dimensions, their definition, and how increased plant awareness is expressed in relation to each of the dimensions. Finally, we identified several factors that are key to raising plant awareness. This validated definition alongside the differentiation of the three dimensions not only assists comprehension of previous research but for the first time opens the possibility of developing a valid and reliable tool to assess an individual's plant awareness. Therefore, this study significantly contributes to promoting research on plant awareness and consequently, towards fostering plant awareness as a common global goal.