A new Polish survey shows that, even as political elites distance themselves from climate action, 73 % of citizens remain worried about climate change.
Elites Shift Climate Stance
Prime Minister Donald Tusk often avoids speaking on climate, calling the word “climate” “a bit forbidden.”
During the last election, not only the right but also centre‑politicians criticised climate policy and tried to separate the issue from their platforms.
Public Concern Persists
The survey, conducted in Poland and over 20 other countries, finds that 73 % of respondents are worried about climate change.
While the proportion of those “very worried” fell to 24 %, the “somewhat worried” group rose to 49 %.
Similar patterns appear in France, the UK and Italy, with more than 80 % of people fearing the harm to future generations.
High Support for Climate Action
Thirty‑one percent say the government should do more, an additional 12 % believe it should do “a lot more.”
However, the share of respondents who think the government should remain unchanged dropped to one‑quarter, while only 15 % favour less action.
Rising Uncertainty About Government Role
Seventeen percent now report “I don’t know” whether the Polish government should do more or less, up from just 6 % in the previous poll.
Experts suggest this rise may reflect a shift in government rhetoric towards greater climate scepticism, undermining voter confidence.
Weather Extremes Highlight Reality
Between August and December 2024, flooding in southern Poland—exacerbated by climate change—boosted concern and support for mitigation measures.
IMGW recorded six unprecedented heatwaves in 2024, including several in winter; February was warmer than the long‑term average by several degrees.
About half of respondents notice unusual weather in winter, especially extreme rainfall from September’s flood, yet only 6 % deny any link to climate change.
Daily Climate Dialogue and Polarization Risks
More than 40 % of Poles discuss climate with close ones occasionally, 13 % frequently, and just over one in ten never raises the topic.
Poles also broadly support specific solutions: 80 % view solar energy positively, 60 % very positively; wind energy shows slightly lower approval.
While 25 % fear pro‑climate actions will hurt the job market and growth, 23 % believe they will improve the economy.
