A recent global survey has unveiled an overwhelming consensus among people worldwide for stronger governmental commitments to combat climate change. Conducted by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Oxford University, and GeoPoll, the survey included 75,000 participants from 77 countries, representing 87 percent of the global population. The findings highlight an urgent call for action as 80 percent of respondents advocate for enhanced efforts to address the climate crisis.
Widespread Demand for Climate Action
The survey’s key finding is clear: four out of every five people want their governments to strengthen climate commitments. Notably, support is even more pronounced in poorer countries, where 89 percent of respondents demand increased efforts against global warming. This sentiment is echoed in the world’s wealthiest nations, with 76 percent of respondents from G20 countries also favoring stronger climate action. Among the largest greenhouse gas emitters, China and the United States, 73 percent and 66 percent of respondents, respectively, support more aggressive climate policies.
“As world leaders decide on the next round of pledges under the Paris Agreement by 2025, these results are undeniable evidence that people everywhere support bold climate action,” said Cassie Flynn, UNDP’s global climate director.
Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels
A significant majority, 72 percent of global respondents, support a rapid transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. This includes major fossil fuel producers, where support ranges from 89 percent in Nigeria to 54 percent in the United States. However, Russia stands out with only 16 percent of respondents in favor of such a transition.
The urgency for action is underscored by the rise in climate anxiety. Over half of those surveyed (56 percent) think about climate change at least once a week, and 53 percent reported being more worried about climate change compared to the previous year. Fiji leads this trend, with 80 percent of respondents expressing increased concern, followed by Afghanistan (78 percent) and Turkey (77 percent). Conversely, Saudi Arabia saw the lowest increase in climate fears, with only 25 percent more worried.
Climate Change Impacting Life Decisions
The survey also highlights the tangible effects of climate change on people’s lives. More than two-thirds of respondents (69 percent) reported that global warming had influenced major life decisions, such as where to live or work and what to buy. This impact is particularly pronounced in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), where climate anxiety and its repercussions are significantly higher.
Despite the clear demand for action, Achim Steiner, head of the UNDP, pointed out a “perception gap” in climate action. He explained, “I would do more. But the others won’t. So I will not do anything,” illustrating the disconnect between individual willingness and collective action.
Support Across Major Emitters
The survey found strong support for climate action in 20 of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters. Majorities ranged from 66 percent in the United States and Russia to 93 percent in Italy. Women in particular showed more support for stronger climate commitments in five major emitting countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United States.
Stephen Fisher, a professor at Oxford University’s Department of Sociology, emphasized the scientific rigor of the survey, noting, “A survey of this size was a huge scientific endeavor. While maintaining rigorous methodology, special efforts were also made to include people from marginalized groups in the poorest parts of the world. This is some of the very highest quality global data on public opinions on climate change available.”
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