World Water Day, observed on March 22nd, underscores the critical importance of fresh water and the need for sustainable management of this vital resource. GlobeScan’s public opinion research consistently finds that water pollution and shortages rank among the top environmental concerns globally.
In the USA, our latest research reveals an area of unexpected bipartisan agreement: Americans across the political spectrum want businesses to advocate for government action to protect fresh water. While Democrat voters are generally more supportive of corporate advocacy on issues like climate change or the UN Sustainable Development Goals – and the political divide is even wider on topics like LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive rights – there is strong consensus with Republican voters on the importance of safeguarding water resources. Clear majorities of 64 percent of Republicans and 74 percent of Democrats believe companies should play a role in promoting clean water.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
Despite the increasing politicization of ESG and sustainability, our research suggests that protecting shared natural resources like fresh water remains a unifying issue. With concerns mounting over regulatory rollbacks on clean water in the US, Americans may increasingly look to businesses to step up. Companies have a rare opportunity to take a clear stand on water protection – an issue that resonates with Americans across party lines.
These insights come from GlobeScan’s Radar survey, a globally representative online study of over 30,000 people across 31 countries and territories. In the US, 1,500 people were surveyed. With two decades of trend data, Radar offers a unique perspective on public expectations of business and other societal actors.
Survey Question: Do you think companies should speak out and take sides on the following issues? ‒ Government action to protect fresh water
Source: GlobeScan Radar (survey of 1,500 people in the general public in USA in July ‒ August 2024)
