Global Survey Reveals Overwhelming Demand for Climate Action
A recent survey conducted by the UN Development Programme in collaboration with the University of Oxford has unveiled a striking statistic: 80 percent of people globally are urging their governments to take stronger measures against climate change. This survey, the largest of its kind, involved more than 75,000 participants from 77 countries.
The study also highlighted that 86 percent of respondents want nations to set aside their differences and collaborate on climate solutions. This level of consensus is remarkable, especially given today’s geopolitical tensions and rising nationalism.
Participants answered 15 questions about their experiences with climate change and their expectations from world leaders. The countries involved in the survey represent 87 percent of the global population, making the findings highly representative.
UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner emphasized the urgency of these findings, stating, “The survey results reveal a level of consensus that is truly astonishing. We urge leaders and policymakers to take note, especially as countries develop their next round of climate action pledges.”
Support Among Major Emitters for Stronger Climate Action
The survey showed significant support for enhanced climate measures in 20 of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters. For instance, 66 percent of people in the United States and Russia are in favor of stronger action, while this figure rises to 93 percent in Italy.
Interestingly, in five major emitting countries—Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United States—women were more likely than men to support stronger climate commitments. In Germany, this gender gap was as wide as 17 percentage points.
Furthermore, a global majority of 72 percent support a rapid transition away from fossil fuels. This sentiment is shared even in top oil, coal, and gas-producing nations, with support ranging from 89 percent in Nigeria to 54 percent in the United States.
Only a small fraction, 7 percent, said their country should not transition away from fossil fuels at all. This data underscores a global readiness for a significant shift in energy policies.
Rising Climate Anxiety Worldwide
Across the globe, people are increasingly concerned about climate change. The survey found that 56 percent of respondents think about climate change regularly, including a higher percentage in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).
More than half of the global population reported being more worried about climate change compared to last year. Notably, this figure was 71 percent among respondents from Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Climate change is influencing major life decisions for many, with 69 percent saying it affects where they choose to live and work. This impact is more pronounced in LDCs but less so in Western and Northern Europe and Northern America.
Professor Stephen Fisher from the University of Oxford highlighted the scientific rigor of the survey, stating, “This is some of the very highest quality global data on public opinions on climate change available.”
UNDP’s Climate Promise Initiative
As world leaders prepare for the next round of climate pledges under the Paris Agreement, the survey’s findings offer undeniable proof of public support for bold climate action. UNDP’s Climate Promise initiative aims to assist policymakers in enhancing their climate action plans.
To date, over 100 developing countries have submitted enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), with 91 percent increasing their targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and 93 percent strengthening adaptation goals.
Key aspects of the Climate Promise initiative include:
- Providing technical support to countries in developing robust climate action plans
- Facilitating access to climate finance for implementing these plans
- Promoting international cooperation and knowledge-sharing
With such widespread public support, the next two years represent a crucial window for the international community to ensure that global warming remains under 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
harper
Can someone explain how this survey was conducted? I’m curious about the methodology.
Ginger
The gender gap in support for climate action is really interesting. Why do you think women are more supportive?
rosieblizzard
This is great news, but let’s not forget about individual actions we can all take every day! 💪
Addison
Thank you, UNDP and University of Oxford, for bringing this to light. The data is undeniable.
danielumbra
Why is it taking so long for leaders to act when the majority is clearly in favor?
ryansolstice5
Wow, 80% is huge! 🌍 Let’s hope the governments actually listen this time.