'According to researchers at ARC Rynek i Opinia: ‘The results of the public opinion survey conducted in several countries around the world in 2024 show that compared to the measurement from 2023, the number of people who consider climate change a serious problem has decreased slightly.’

They added that globally, this percentage dropped by 3 percentage points (from 83 to 80%), in Poland by 7 percentage points (from 81 to 74%).

Poland's decreased concern is in line with a broader international pattern. In particular, Poles now share a similar level of concern about climate change as the global average, though they remain more worried than people in the US, Finland, and Australia, where concerns are lower. On the other hand, nations like Turkey, Mexico, Malaysia, and Indonesia are more concerned about the climate crisis.

The decline in concern is also reflected in a growing scepticism about the transition to a zero-emission economy. Globally, 49% of respondents now believe that achieving a zero-emission world economy is unlikely, up from 43% last year.

The report said: ‘This shows that the belief in the possibility of a rapid change in the world economy towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions is decreasing. On the other hand, scepticism in the approach to clean, low-emission energy production is growing.’

In Poland, the number of people who view the development of renewable energy (RES) as a priority has also dropped. Only 41% of Poles now consider expanding RES a top priority, compared to 52% in 2023. While a majority still acknowledges the importance of renewable energy, fewer believe it should be at the forefront of national efforts.

The survey also reveals changing consumer attitudes toward environmental issues. While concern over climate change is decreasing, respondents still prioritize product safety, sustainability, and environmental impact when making purchasing decisions. The overwhelming majority (84%) of Poles would be influenced by a company's commitment to offering safe, toxin-free products. Similar percentages expressed interest in products made from natural raw materials (81%) or those with reduced plastic use (75%) and lower water and energy consumption (74%).

While attitudes toward renewable energy are shifting, Poles still consider environmental factors, such as recyclable packaging and reduced CO2 emissions, important when it comes to consumer choices. For example, 72% of respondents noted that the use of recyclable materials and biodegradable products would positively influence their purchasing decisions.

The survey, conducted in 2024 using the CAWI method on a sample of 1,055 Poles, is part of a global study involving 20 countries. (PAP)

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