Public shows widespread awareness and desires increased collaboration at all levels.
A recent study conducted by the renowned FORESIGHT Institute on behalf of the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative clearly demonstrates that climate and environmental protection remain topics that unite societies in 2025. In January and February, the institute conducted online surveys among 1,000 individuals each in Austria and Germany, focusing on their attitudes toward climate change and environmental pollution.
“Our findings indicate that the climate crisis is perceived by the public as a societal challenge that, contrary to common stereotypes, serves as a unifying issue,” stated Christoph Hofinger, Managing Director of the FORESIGHT Institute and co-author of the study. “This assessment holds true irrespective of age, residence, or educational background, underscoring widespread awareness.”
Indeed, the results clearly indicate that approximately three-quarters of respondents in both countries (75% in Austria, 73% in Germany) view climate change and environmental pollution as central challenges of our era. This perspective connects individuals across all age groups, education levels, and living conditions. Notably, the perceived difference in awareness between urban and rural populations is significantly smaller than commonly assumed.
“The study impressively illustrates that climate action is not just a shared concern but a unifying element within our societies,” said Monika Langthaler, Director of the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative. “If we harness this solidarity, we can effectively act together. This is precisely why we have chosen ‘UNITE IN ACTION – Terminate Pollution’ as this year’s motto for the AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT.”
The study also reveals broad recognition of the negative impacts of climate change, with around two-thirds of respondents expecting a significant deterioration in their quality of life due to climate change and environmental pollution. They particularly see vulnerable groups such as individuals with health issues, children, and low-income earners as most at risk.
Simultaneously, the study found that many individuals perceive current efforts against climate change at national and international levels as insufficient. While local initiatives are often rated positively, there is clearly a demand for more comprehensive and structural action.
Christoph Hofinger from the FORESIGHT Institute emphasized: “The data clearly indicate that while local initiatives are important, they cannot substitute consistent action at national and international levels. The majority of respondents desire stronger collaboration and greater emphasis on our commonalities rather than differences.”
In this context, Arnold Schwarzenegger invites participation in this year’s Austrian World Summit, themed “UNITE IN ACTION – TERMINATE POLLUTION,” set to take place on June 3, 2025, at the Hofburg in Vienna, encouraging collective action toward a healthier planet.