CGTN Survey: Developing Nations Tackle Climate Change
A recent poll by CGTN in partnership with Renmin University of China highlights a significant global agreement on the pressing need to address climate change, with developing nations displaying especially high levels of determination and dedication.
The survey, which included responses from 7,658 individuals across 38 nations, reveals that developing countries are especially open to adopting green solutions and advocate for greater international collaboration to confront the growing climate crisis.
Notably, 90.3 percent of participants expressed that addressing climate change is urgent, emphasizing the need for the international community to build consensus and take more effective action.
Widespread concern about severe extreme weather events—such as heat waves, hurricanes, and floods—was evident among respondents worldwide. Findings show that 90.4 percent of global participants believe the frequency of such events has risen dramatically in recent years. Additionally, 87.3 percent think the frequent occurrence of these disasters indicates a rapid deterioration of the global climate, and 89.8 percent express being "very concerned" or "concerned" about climate governance matters.
Among the respondents, 87 percent recognized that enhancing international cooperation is essential for effective global climate governance. However, the data suggests that, in contrast to their developed counterparts, respondents from developing countries demonstrate a stronger willingness, determination, and commitment to addressing climate issues.
According to the survey, 80.8 percent of participants from developing nations indicated a "willingness to pay extra for environmentally friendly products," which is 26.5 percentage points higher than that of respondents from developed countries. Moreover, 86.6 percent of those from developing countries actively embrace new energy technologies and products, which is 17 points higher than the figure for developed nations. Additionally, 96.1 percent of respondents from developing countries support the acceleration of green industry development to combat climate change, nearly 11 percentage points more than their counterparts in developed countries.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change highlights that the largest portion of historical and current global greenhouse gas emissions stems from developed countries, establishing the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities" between these and developing nations. The survey results indicate that 75.3 percent of respondents believe developed nations lack the sincerity and action needed in global climate governance, which significantly hinders cooperative efforts. Furthermore, 73.9 percent regard it as irresponsible for developed countries to postpone their climate aid commitments.
Additionally, 85.8 percent of respondents urge developed nations to provide essential climate financing to assist developing countries in implementing the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, 89.8 percent feel that developed countries hold significant historical and moral responsibility for human-induced climate change and call for greater ambition and action from them on this front.
The survey encompassed individuals from both developed nations, including the United States, Germany, and Japan, as well as developing countries such as Argentina, India, and Kenya.
Debra A Smith for TROIB News