advertentieA large majority of Europeans believe climate change is a serious problem (85%), according to a new Eurobarometer survey published today. Among those surveyed, 8 in 10 (81%) support the EU-wide goal of reaching climate neutrality by 2050. More than three quarters (77%) agree that the cost of damage due to climate change is much higher than the investment needed for a net-zero transition.
Most Europeans (85%) agree that tackling climate change should be a priority to improve public health and quality of life. Likewise, 83% of those surveyed agree that better preparation for the adverse impacts of climate change will enhance the lives of EU citizens. Many Europeans feel the impact of climate change in their daily lives, with almost 4 in 10 Europeans (38%) feeling personally exposed to environmental and climate-related risks. Over half of these individuals are from 8 Member States, primarily in Southern Europe, as well as Poland and Hungary.
Support for renewables, energy efficiency and energy autonomy
Close to nine in ten Europeans (88%) think it is important for the EU to take action to increase renewable energy, and the same percentage (88%) believes it is important for the EU to improve energy efficiency, for example by encouraging home insulation, solar panel installation, or electric vehicle purchases. Three quarters (75%) believe that reducing fossil fuel imports will enhance energy security and benefit the EU economically. 77% of Europeans agree that acting on climate change will foster innovation. Over eight in ten Europeans (84%) support increased assistance for European companies to compete in the global clean technology market, reflecting public backing for the Clean Industrial Deal.
Citizens committed to individual action and structural reform
A large majority of EU citizens are taking individual climate action (92%) and making sustainable choices in their daily lives. However, only 28% believe they are best positioned to tackle climate change through personal actions. Citizens identify national governments (66%), the EU (59%), and business and industry (58%) as the key players in addressing climate change. 44% believe regional and local governments are also well positioned to take climate action.
Climate in the media
While the survey found that 84% of citizens agree that climate change is caused by human activity, over half of respondents (52%) feel that traditional media do not provide clear information on climate change, its causes, and impacts. Looking at broader communication channels, 49% find it difficult to differentiate between reliable information and disinformation about climate change on social media.
Background
Special Eurobarometer 565 on Climate Change surveyed 26,319 EU citizens from various social and demographic groups across all 27 EU Member States. The survey was conducted between February 18 and March 10, 2025. All interviews were carried out face-to-face, either physically in peoples homes or through remote video interaction.
The EU has long been a global leader in climate action, establishing one of the worlds most comprehensive policy frameworks to reduce emissions, drive innovation, and build a sustainable, resilient economy. With binding targets for 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050, the EU continues to strengthen the tools needed for a fair and effective transition. The Commission assessment of updated National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), published on May 28, shows increased ambition and clearer national pathways toward collective 2030 goals. New initiatives such as the Clean Industrial Deal are boosting innovation and anchoring climate policy in Europe’s long-term competitiveness by accelerating investment in clean technologies and strengthening the industrial base. The Affordable Energy Action Plan supports households and businesses through the transition, ensuring energy security and affordability. As preparations advance to amend the European Climate Law to include an ambitious 2040 target and present a new EU Climate Adaptation Plan next year, the EU remains firmly on course towards climate neutrality, grounded in innovation, shared prosperity, and resilience.
For more information
Special Eurobarometer on Climate Change
Delivering the European Green Deal