public opinion
Newsletter
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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.
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.
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Newsletter
Climate disruption skepticism persists among Australians
Despite widespread climate events, only 60% of Australians believe human activity causes climate disruption, a recent poll reveals.
In short:
- An international survey found Australians are among the most skeptical globally about human-caused climate disruption.
- The poll showed a drop in belief from 66% to 60% in 18 months, lower than the global average of 73%.
- Only 52% of Australians believe the costs of climate impacts will exceed the costs of ecological transition.
Key quote:
"We need to do more work in telling the stories about the facts."
— Richard Kirkman, chief executive of Veolia in Australia
Why this matters:
Australia's skepticism about climate disruption hinders effective climate action, as public and political support is crucial for meaningful environmental policies. Misinformation and political messaging impact public understanding and response to climate change.
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Credit: Peter Beukema/Unsplash
Most citizens in fossil fuel nations favor rapid shift to clean energy
A UN poll reveals that citizens in major fossil fuel-producing countries support a quick transition to clean energy to combat climate change.
In short:
- The UN’s largest climate opinion poll shows a majority in 77 countries want swift clean energy transitions.
- 86% of global respondents favor cooperation on climate change, transcending geopolitical differences.
- Significant support for fast transition seen in China, India, the US, and Saudi Arabia among others.
Key quote:
“There can be no doubt that citizens across the world are saying to their leaders, you have to act and, above all, have to act faster.”
— Achim Steiner, UNDP head
Why this matters:
Public demand for rapid energy transitions emphasizes global awareness and urgency about climate change. Broad support for international cooperation suggests potential for unified climate action, despite rising nationalism and conflicts.
Related EHN coverage:
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Europeans prioritize immigration control over climate action, study finds
A recent study indicates a shifting focus among Europeans toward controlling immigration rather than addressing climate change, with less than 15% globally ranking climate issues as a top three governmental priority.
In short:
- The Democracy Perception Index highlights that 44% of Germans view reducing immigration as a crucial government task.
- Despite global concerns, only 14% consider climate change action as a top governmental priority.
- Satisfaction with democracy stands at 58% globally, though many express concerns about governmental performance.
Key quote:
"Many European countries have seen a sharp rise in the share of people who say that ‘reducing immigration’ should be a top government priority."
— study commissioned by the Denmark-based think tank Alliance of Democracies Foundation
Why this matters:
While the effects of immigration are immediate and often palpable in daily life, the insidious nature of climate change means that its most devastating impacts can be deferred but not ultimately avoided. Scientists consistently warn that delays in addressing climate change could result in irreversible damage to our planet, affecting not just the environment but the very socio-economic structures that are currently influencing public opinion.
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Opinion
Photo by Anthony Choren on Unsplash
Eighty percent of French worried about climate change: Report
Published Wednesday, the "2023 report on the state of France" shows that all age groups share concern about climate change, with no major difference between people aged under 35 years and older people.
Opinion
Image by Brigitte Werner from Pixabay
San Diego researchers see role for public opinion in global warming fight
San Diego researchers think there is a way to make sure countries keep their climate friendly promises laid out in the Paris Agreement. They suggest calling them out publicly if they fall short.
Image by Foundry Co from Pixabay
The politics of climate change
With heat records set in southern Arizona and around the world, a new survey shows there is a big split on climate change and where it should be on the list of priorities.
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