Americans express concern over nature but often misjudge their role in environmental damage

A recent global survey reveals that while many Americans are worried about environmental issues, a large portion does not see themselves as contributing significantly to the problem.

Katie Surma reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

The Global Commons survey found that 88% of respondents globally are worried about environmental destruction.
Half of Americans polled do not feel personally affected by climate risks, despite evidence showing they are.
Only 15% of Americans believe they bear responsibility for environmental harm, attributing blame to businesses and governments.

Key quote:

“It’s troubling that Americans aren’t making that connection.”

— Geoff Dabelko, professor at Ohio University

Why this matters:

Americans’ misunderstanding of their environmental impact hinders progress toward global climate goals. Individual lifestyle changes, especially among the wealthiest, are crucial to reducing carbon emissions and halting ecosystem destruction.

Related EHN coverage:

insideclimatenews.org

Americans express concern over nature but often misjudge their role in environmental damage

The high cost of climate change on worker productivity

EU to launch climate insurance scheme after summer of extreme weather

More than 12 trillion tons of ice lost in climate change's big melt

Congressional Republicans aim to shield fossil fuel companies from climate lawsuits

What the science really says about the health and climate risks of carbon pollution

Carbon sequestration moves forward in SW Louisiana despite Governor's moratorium

10 promising ways to ‘green’ offshore wind

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.