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European Union

Europeans Divided on Economic Impact of Climate Change

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The recent 2021-2022 Climate Survey, conducted in September 2021 and published by the European Investment Bank (EIB), reveals a mixed perception of Europeans on the economic impact of climate change. While a majority (56%) believe that the green transition will bring economic growth, there is a stark divide between western and eastern European countries, with 60% of people in western EU countries thinking that climate policies will create more jobs than they eliminate, compared to 55% of people in eastern EU countries who fear job losses.

The survey also highlights concerns about the long-term consequences of climate change, with 66% of Europeans expecting the climate emergency to still be a serious issue by 2050. One-third of the EU population (29%) expects to have to move to another region or country due to climate issues, with 50% of young Europeans (20-29 years old) expressing concern about needing to move due to climate-related job losses. Furthermore, 44% of respondents aged 20-29 fear losing their job due to its incompatibility with the fight against climate change.

Key Takeaways:

  • 56% of Europeans believe that the green transition will bring economic growth, with 66% thinking that climate policies will have a net positive impact on employment levels.
  • 60% of people in western EU countries think that climate policies will create more jobs than they eliminate, compared to 55% of people in eastern EU countries who fear job losses.
  • 66% of Europeans expect the climate emergency to still be a serious issue by 2050.
  • 29% of the EU population expects to have to move to another region or country due to climate issues.
  • 50% of young Europeans (20-29 years old) are concerned about needing to move due to climate-related job losses.
  • 44% of respondents aged 20-29 fear losing their job due to its incompatibility with the fight against climate change.

Statistics:

  • 56% of Europeans believe that the green transition will bring economic growth.
  • 66% of Europeans expect the climate emergency to still be a serious issue by 2050.
  • 29% of the EU population expects to have to move to another region or country due to climate issues.
  • 50% of young Europeans (20-29 years old) are concerned about needing to move due to climate-related job losses.
  • 44% of respondents aged 20-29 fear losing their job due to its incompatibility with the fight against climate change.
  • 63% of Europeans believe that most people will be working from home to contribute to the fight against climate change.

Sources:

  • The European Investment Bank (EIB)
  • The 2021-2022 Climate Survey
  • Al Bawaba (Albawaba.com)
  • SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info)

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