Simulating conversations with nature: The effects of an environment-anthropomorphic chatbot on climate attitudes and intentions

This study investigated the impact of engaging with an anthropomorphic chatbot representing the environment on individuals’ perceived relevance and behavioral intention toward climate action. Over 3 weeks, 100 participants were involved in daily conversations with the chatbot. Using an autoregressive structural equation model for longitudinal mediation effects, the results revealed that frequent interaction with the chatbot fostered an intimate and personal relationship with the chatbot (PSI), despite its lack of authenticity, which, in turn, developed pro-environmental attitudes. These findings offer preliminary evidence that chatbots, through simulating conversations with non-human entities—the environment, have the potential to facilitate pro-environmental change.