As the world passes the critical 1.5˚C increase in average global temperatures, fewer people believe individual actions are necessary to combat climate change. According to a new study by Ipsos, conducted across 32 countries for Earth Day, public attitudes towards climate change are shifting. The Ipsos People and Climate Change Report shows that fewer people think individual action is essential. This decline is significant in highlighting the changing perceptions of the climate crisis.
While 62% of respondents across 32 countries still agree that failing to act individually will impact future generations, this sentiment has decreased since 2021. That was the first year the question was asked. Particularly among G7 nations—such as Japan, the U.S., Germany, France, and Great Britain—the number of people who feel compelled to act has declined by double digits. This indicates a growing sense of disillusionment with personal responsibility in tackling climate issues.
GROWING CONCERN OVER CLIMATE CHANGE’S IMPACT
Despite the declining belief in individual action, concern about the climate crisis is on the rise. The survey shows that 74% of people are worried about the impacts of climate change in their own countries. This represents an 18-country increase since 2022. Countries most at risk from climate change like the Philippines and Turkey, report especially high levels of concern.
This growing awareness shows that people recognize the escalating threat. But, they may no longer see personal actions as the solution. Instead, they appear to be looking for broader, systemic changes to address the climate emergency.
THE 1.5˚C THRESHOLD: A WAKE-UP CALL
The Ipsos survey also underscores the global recognition that exceeding a 1.5˚C temperature rise is a significant concern. While 53% of people disagree with the statement that a rise beyond 1.5˚C is “not that big a deal,” 17% still downplay the potential impact of surpassing this critical threshold. Interestingly, India is the only country where a greater proportion of people feel that an increase above 1.5˚C isn’t a major issue.
This division in perception signals the complexity of climate change communication. Many acknowledge the risks. Yet, there is a gap in understanding the scale of the threat. There is also a lack of willingness to acknowledge the danger posed by continued global warming.
DIVIDED OPINIONS ON GOVERNMENT ACTION
While there is increasing concern about the climate crisis, people are divided on whether their governments should do more. The Ipsos study reveals that in Latin America, citizens are more likely to demand further action from their governments. In contrast, people in countries like Canada and France feel that too much is being asked of them. They are less inclined to believe their governments need to do more to combat climate change.
The survey found that 36% of global respondents think their countries are giving up too much to tackle climate change. This perception of sacrifice has fueled resistance to more ambitious policies in certain regions, particularly where economic challenges are more prominent.
FINANCIAL CONCERNS HINDER TRANSITION TO RENEWABLE ENERGY
The Ipsos report also highlights financial concerns as a key barrier to transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Many people in several European countries believe that switching to renewable energy sources will increase energy prices. Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and France hold this belief. They have concerns about the financial impact.
Additionally, Europeans are less convinced that electric cars are a better alternative to traditional petrol or gas-powered vehicles. Many believe that electric cars may have similar environmental drawbacks. These financial and practical concerns persist. They challenge governments and businesses pushing for a green transition. Citizens weigh the long-term benefits against short-term economic consequences.
SHIFTING PUBLIC ATTITUDES AMID CLIMATE CRISIS
The Ipsos People and Climate Change Report reveals a complex and evolving global attitude towards the climate crisis. As the world surpasses the critical 1.5˚C threshold, the belief in individual action is declining. This suggests that people are increasingly looking to governments and industries for systemic solutions. While climate concern is on the rise, financial worries are significant hurdles. Opinions are divided on government action. There is also skepticism about the effectiveness of individual efforts.
Governments and organizations must communicate the urgency of the climate crisis. They need to foster a sense of collective responsibility to address these concerns. Broader support is crucial for large-scale action. Otherwise, building the momentum needed for a meaningful transition toward a sustainable future may be challenging.
