European Citizens Emphasize Stronger Actions on Climate Change, According to Public Opinion Surveys
In a recent survey conducted by Kantar polling firm, it was revealed that across all 28 EU states, a significant majority of citizens – 60% – have taken personal action for climate protection in the past six months. The survey, which spoke with 27,655 people face-to-face in April 2019, covered a wide range of topics including perceptions of climate change, tackling climate change, attitudes toward fighting climate change, the transition to clean energy, reducing fossil fuel imports, and setting targets for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate neutrality.
The findings of the survey suggest a disconnect between the EU's political class and its 'demoi,' or the multiple populations and citizens who comprise the EU. Concern about climate change has surged compared to a year ago in all but one country, and across 24 member states, that concern has spiked at least 10%.
Notably, at least two thirds of respondents in almost every country think climate change is a very serious problem. In Central Europe, 70% of Poles and 85% of Hungarians consider climate change a very serious problem. Europeans may need to elect a new generation of politicians better in tune with the Zeitgeist if the current generation is too timid to act decisively on climate protection.
The survey also highlighted some politically active figures associated with the new generation aware of climate protection and decision-making. Politicians such as Robert Habeck and Annalena Baerbock from the Green Party, who represent a generation committed to climate action and social issues, have gained prominence. Another significant figure is Ursula von der Leyen, the new EU Commission president, who has declared she will push a Green Deal during her term.
Moreover, over 80% of EU citizens believe that national governments, industry, and the EU have the responsibility to do more for climate protection. No single country in Europe prioritizes climate protection as highly as eight of the EU's populations seem to do, including the Scandinavians, Germans, Austrians, Maltese, UK citizens, and Dutch.
The survey also found that Majorities in eight of the 28 states said that climate is the most serious issue of all. In the EU survey Special Eurobarometer 490, published in September 2019, over 93% of respondents across all 28 member states considered climate change a serious problem.
Interestingly, Cyprus, Malta, and Greece show the biggest majorities (95%, 92%, and 91% respectively) in favor of subsidizing clean energy and denying fossil fuels subsidies. This indicates a clear preference among EU citizens for a shift towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
However, the political establishment often perceives climate issues as a vote loser. The surveys suggest the opposite, with citizens across Europe demonstrating a strong commitment to climate action. It remains to be seen whether this commitment will translate into political action and meaningful change in the fight against climate change.
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