A global survey across nine middle-income countries reveals growing public concern about climate change and its visible effects on communities. Large majorities believe global climate change is already impacting their surroundings, especially in Latin American nations where nearly half report it affects their areas a great deal.
A median of 56 percent of adults across these nations express strong concern that climate change will personally harm them during their lifetime. Concern levels vary by country, with over six in ten respondents in Argentina, Indonesia, Kenya, and South Africa sharing this anxiety. In contrast, only about one-third of adults in Turkey report similar fears.
Drought and Water Shortages Top the List of Worries
When asked about the most worrying effects of climate change, droughts and water shortages emerged as the top global concerns. Respondents mentioned these threats more than twice as often as heat waves, floods, storms, or rising sea levels. Countries such as Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa, and Turkey have seen noticeable increases in public concern about drought since 2015.
Shifting Levels of Concern Across Regions
While many still fear climate-related harm, awareness has slightly declined in Argentina, Brazil, India, Mexico, and Nigeria since 2015. Meanwhile, concern surged in Indonesia, South Africa, and Turkey, reflecting changing local experiences with extreme weather patterns and environmental stress.
Willingness to Change for a Healthier Planet
Encouragingly, most people surveyed—approximately 80 percent—say they are ready to make at least some lifestyle or work adjustments to mitigate climate change. The degree of commitment varies: only 17 percent in Turkey are willing to make major changes, compared to 53 percent in Kenya. A smaller 18 percent median admit they would make few or no changes at all.
Growing Confidence in Global Cooperation
A median of 62 percent of respondents express some confidence in the international community’s ability to reduce the effects of climate change. Optimism is especially high in India, Indonesia, and Kenya, where about seven in ten adults believe international action can make a difference. However, confidence is weaker in Argentina, Mexico, and Turkey, where fewer than half share this trust.
The Role of the United Nations and Global Responsibility
TheUnited Nations, a key actor in global environmental policy since the 1970s, maintains strong public support across most countries. People with favorable views of the UN are more likely to express trust in global climate initiatives. When asked about climate responsibility, 59 percent of respondents said carbon emissions should weigh more than national wealth when determining how much each country should do to address climate change.
Young Adults Lead in Climate Awareness and Action
Younger adults, aged 18 to 34, show higher willingness to adopt sustainable behaviors than older generations. In countries like India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Turkey, this younger demographic also expresses greater concern about climate change’s personal impact. They are more likely to support emission-based accountability in climate policies, reflecting a generational shift toward pragmatic and inclusive global solutions.