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• Willingness to Pay More to Limit Climate Change

  

  Although COP29 was widely seen as a missed opportunity, it marked a turning point as discussions on a carbon tax gained traction. This initiative seeks to address the urgent need for climate action by taxing carbon emissions, encouraging businesses and individuals to reduce their carbon footprint, and funding climate mitigation and adaptation efforts, particularly in developing countries. A carbon tax is increasingly viewed as a pivotal step toward meeting the Paris Agreement targets and ensuring equitable contributions across sectors to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

  Public opinion research from GlobeScan reveals that, in principle, there is global support for the concept of a carbon tax to help combat climate change. However, willingness to accept higher taxes and prices is lower in North America and Europe compared to the Global South. This difference reflects growing cost-of-living pressures, shifting public priorities, and a growing backlash against green policies in some regions.

  WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

  The success of carbon taxes will depend on making them not just environmentally effective but also socially and economically equitable, ensuring they resonate with citizens worldwide. Governments must address public resistance in North America and Europe, where cost-of-living concerns and skepticism about new taxes are more pronounced. Clear communication on how revenues will be used will be critical – for example, reinvesting in renewable energy, supporting vulnerable communities, or subsidizing sustainable alternatives to ease household financial burdens. Demonstrating tangible benefits and ensuring fairness in implementation will be paramount to building public trust and acceptance in the Global North. Similarly, reducing perceived inequities among regions will be key for fostering support in the Global South.

  This analysis is based on a representative online survey of over 30,000 people across 31 countries and territories. It draws upon GlobeScan’s extensive Radar global research program which spans more than two decades of public opinion insights on societal challenges and perceptions of key actors.

  Survey Question: For each of the following statements, please indicate if you strongly agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree, or strongly disagree. – I would be willing to pay more in taxes and higher prices if this would help to limit climate change.

  Source: GlobeScan Radar Trends Report (survey of 30,216 people in the general public in July ‒ August 2024)​​

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