Americans, Brits Show Growing Concern for Climate Change

New surveys conducted by Veolia in the United States and The Wildlife Trusts in the United Kingdom reveal significant shifts in public perception and willingness to address environmental challenges. These studies highlight a growing awareness and readiness among the public to adopt measures and support policies that tackle climate change and environmental degradation.

American Attitudes Toward Climate Change and Environmental Solutions

A new survey by Veolia, in collaboration with research firm Elabe, underscores the increasing concern among Americans regarding climate change. The study, which involved 2,000 participants from diverse demographics, demonstrates that climate impacts are no longer abstract but are seen and felt regularly by a large percentage of the population.

Key Findings:

• Immediate Impact Recognition: A substantial 61% of Americans feel exposed to a deterioration in their quality of life due to worsening climate conditions. Additionally, 57% feel vulnerable to health risks, with 54% of this group expressing concern over the mental health impacts of climate change.
• Support for Innovative Solutions: There is a notable increase in the willingness to adopt extreme measures, such as drinking recycled wastewater, with 61% of respondents supporting this adaptation to severe water shortages—a 19% increase from 2022. Furthermore, 74% are open to consuming food produced using recycled wastewater for fertilizer.
• Financial Commitment to Clean Water: A significant 82% of Americans are prepared to pay more to help eliminate micropollutants from drinking water.
• Investment in Green Solutions: More than half (57%) believe that the financial costs of climate disruption will surpass the investments needed for ecological transformation.
• Optimism for the Future: Despite the concerns, 53% of Americans remain confident that meaningful steps can still be taken to mitigate and reverse climate impacts.

These findings reinforce the shift towards acknowledging and addressing the immediate effects of climate change, emphasizing the role of public health in motivating ecological behavior and investment.

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Fred Van Heems, President of Veolia North America: “From the latest survey results, we can see that the anxiety and concern that Americans feel about climate change and the dangers it poses to our health and well-being are only growing more pronounced. At the same time, we see that many Americans remain hopeful that it’s not too late to take steps to reverse these impacts and preserve the planet for our children and future generations – but we need to act. Global public opinion that includes America is also convinced that inaction will cost humanity more than the necessary investments to the ecological transition.”

UK Public Opinion on Environmental Policy and Action

A poll by The Wildlife Trusts, involving over 2,000 UK adults, and conducted just last week, reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the main political parties' handling of environmental issues. The survey indicates that environmental concerns are now a key issue for voters, with a substantial portion prioritizing these issues in their voting decisions.

Key Findings:

• Political Discontent: A majority of the public believes that main parties are performing poorly on various environmental challenges, including river pollution (78%), nature loss (71%), climate change (69%), ensuring community benefits from nature (65%), and supporting sustainable food production (63%).
• Environmental Importance: An overwhelming 79% of respondents consider nature essential for well-being and economic prosperity, while 59% see environmental issues as equally important as other national concerns. Notably, 39% of voters intend to base their voting decisions on candidates' environmental policies.
• Top Environmental Priorities: Ensuring proper protection of marine nature (50%), Halving river pollution by 2030 (45%), Upgrading home energy efficiency to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions (38%), Helping farmers reduce emissions and adapt to climate change through farm payment schemes (37%), Increasing funding for nature-friendly farming (37%)

These results highlight a clear demand for more effective environmental policies and actions from political leaders, reflecting a strong public concern for addressing climate change and ecological degradation.

Craig Bennett, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts: “People know that our natural world is in crisis and that this disaster has consequences for us all. Last year’s State of Nature report revealed catastrophic declines in wildlife with 1 in 6 species at risk of extinction from Britain. Nature is in freefall and this fact has repercussions for our health, our ability to produce food, and our capacity to withstand floods, drought and heat.

Looking Ahead

The surveys conducted in the U.S. and the UK present a compelling picture of rising public concern and readiness to tackle environmental challenges. Americans show an increasing willingness to adopt extreme measures and invest in green solutions to address the tangible impacts of climate change on their daily lives. In contrast, UK respondents express significant dissatisfaction with political parties' efforts on environmental issues, emphasizing the need for stronger and more effective policies.

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Both surveys underscore the critical importance of addressing climate change and environmental degradation through innovative solutions and robust policy actions. As public awareness and concern continue to grow, there is a clear mandate for leaders and policymakers to prioritize ecological transformation and implement strategies that ensure a sustainable future.