The tensions and conflicts that are happening at the moment, as well as in recent years, lead to the opinion that division and intolerance at the global level are very pronounced. While there are religious, national, racial, and other divisions, and while at the same time, such divisions are overcome by the love for the same music, sports, or series, one issue stands out that should unite us the most and to the highest degree – environmental protection.
I often wonder whether I was right to decide to fight for the preservation of our planet professionally. Does my effort have any meaning and impact? Many do not hesitate to pollute the park in front of their building, so why should they make an effort to make a mountain, a river, or a distant ocean a healthier place?
The question is whether there is solidarity among people and an understanding of the importance of preserving nature.
Thankfully, there is something that could indicate that I am wrong. Namely, the largest ever independent public opinion survey on climate change – Peoples’ Climate Vote 2024 – published on the website of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), showed positive results. The survey states that 80 per cent of people globally want their governments to take stronger action to combat climate change.
Even more encouraging is that 86 per cent of respondents want their countries to put geopolitical differences aside and work together to stop climate change.
73,000 people speaking 87 different languages from 77 countries participated in the survey. They were asked 15 questions about climate change related to their attitudes about how they want world leaders to react and how they perceive the impact of climate change.
In as many as 20 countries that are the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases, support for stronger climate action is evident. Also, overall, more than 72 per cent showed support for a rapid transition away from fossil fuels.
Around 78 per cent of people around the world want better protection for those people who are at risk from extreme weather events and 79 per cent of them want richer countries to help poorer ones adapt to such consequences.
All the presented data is positive. However, it is necessary to encourage and support such people so that their voices have a stronger influence. Unfortunately, it is not enough to just want this. Still, we have to create opportunities to acquire knowledge about how each of us can contribute, and governments must approve and support such wishes and potential actions instead of hindering them.
