Insights from a comprehensive APCO survey reveal a world divided on climate action, emphasising the urgent need for clearer communication and decisive steps on multilateral platforms like COP
A comprehensive survey by APCO Worldwide, in collaboration with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, reveals a global divide in addressing climate change. The report highlights key sentiments and priorities, showcasing the need for clearer communication and decisive actions ahead of COP 28.
The findings, drawn from a global audience of 24,300 adults across 39 countries, offer insights into public concerns and expectations regarding climate action. Key takeaways include a resounding 40 percent global consensus on climate change as the top concern, underscoring its universal significance.
A striking 70 percent of respondents emphasise the pivotal role of business innovation and technology in meeting the Paris Agreement's climate targets. The private sector's involvement is deemed crucial in driving sustainable solutions, aligning with the overarching theme of collaborative efforts.
Despite this, the survey highlights a demand for clearer communication, with nearly 60 percent expressing the need to hear more from organisations and prominent figures on climate change. The study underscores the importance of transparent frameworks and communication strategies in gaining public support for the inevitable trade-offs essential to achieving climate targets.
Employee loyalty is evidently linked to corporate climate responsibility, with survey results indicating increased loyalty and recommendations for companies championing climate action. This further emphasises the role of corporate responsibility in talent retention and attraction.
As the world approaches COP 28, the survey suggests that public understanding of climate terminology remains challenging, presenting an opportunity for governments and companies to bridge this gap and foster public engagement. The report calls for a more inclusive approach to discussing climate actions, catering to non-expert audiences.
The survey also delves into regional variations in confidence levels regarding achieving global net-zero targets by 2050. While 55 percent express optimism, variations across regions indicate diverse perspectives. The public perceives international organisations and non-governmental organisations as doing enough, but fewer believe the same about large companies and their own governments.
In conclusion, the survey emphasises the need for strategic communication, common frameworks, and decisive actions to navigate the complexities of decarbonisation. With COP 28 on the horizon, understanding public sentiment becomes pivotal in shaping effective government and business strategies to meet climate targets.
The report's insights provide a valuable roadmap for stakeholders seeking to align actions with public expectations in the critical fight against climate change.