A recent Pew Research Center survey conducted from October 21-27, 2024, with 9,593 U.S. adults reveals mixed views on the economic impact of climate policies. Notably, 34% of respondents believe these policies help the economy, while an equal percentage think they hurt it. The survey indicates a significant partisan divide: 56% of Republicans feel that climate policies negatively affect the economy, whereas 52% of Democrats believe they are beneficial. This division reflects broader sentiments regarding climate action, with 69% of Americans feeling that large businesses do too little to address climate issues.
The survey also highlights strong public support for specific climate initiatives, with 83% favoring tax credits for home energy efficiency and 79% supporting carbon capture technology. However, there is widespread frustration over political disagreements surrounding climate issues, with 80% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction. Additionally, 64% of participants acknowledge that climate change affects their local communities, a sentiment shared by 86% of Democrats and 41% of Republicans.
Despite the recognition of climate change's local impact, only 23% of Americans foresee making major sacrifices due to it, although 75% expect to make some sacrifices. Emotional reactions to climate change are prevalent, with 80% feeling frustrated, 73% sad, and 51% skeptical. The survey also reveals that 45% of respondents believe human activity significantly contributes to climate change, with a stark partisan divide: 70% of Democrats versus 20% of Republicans.
In terms of environmental initiatives, there is overwhelming support for planting a trillion trees (89%) and sealing methane leaks (84%). Economic considerations remain paramount, with 67% prioritizing environmental protection for future generations. These findings reflect a complex landscape of public opinion on climate policies and their perceived economic ramifications, highlighting the challenges policymakers face in addressing climate change effectively while balancing economic concerns. [efea412d]