A survey conducted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the People’s Climate Vote shows that an overwhelming 85% of Zimbabweans expressed a strong desire for increased climate action from their leaders.
The survey, the largest standalone public opinion poll on climate change, provides a crucial platform for citizens to voice their concerns and needs to global policymakers. The survey reveals the profound impact of climate change on Zimbabwean families, with 49% stating that it significantly influenced major decisions such as where to live, work, or what to purchase.
An additional 27% reported some impact, highlighting the pervasive nature of climate-related challenges. When asked about protecting people from extreme weather events like storms and extreme heat, 90% of respondents emphasized the need for substantial protective measures. In contrast, only 6% believed current levels of protection are adequate, and a mere 3% suggested a reduction.
Evaluations of the country’s overall climate change efforts were mixed. While 22% of Zimbabweans felt their country was addressing climate change effectively, 35% rated the response as only somewhat effective. A combined 27% viewed the efforts negatively or very negatively, and 10% were uncertain.
Big businesses received even lower marks, with just 13% of respondents believing these entities are addressing climate change well, and 25% offering a negative assessment. Notably, 47% felt the government had the most significant impact in addressing climate issues, followed by the United Nations at 17%.
Education on climate change emerged as a critical concern, with an overwhelming 94% of Zimbabweans calling for more extensive teaching on the subject in schools. Similarly, 94% supported international cooperation on climate issues, regardless of other geopolitical disagreements.
The transition to renewable energy is also a priority, with 56% advocating for a swift move away from coal, oil, and gas. The level of concern for future generations is high, with 39% very worried and 20% extremely worried about the effects of climate change on their children.
Experiences with extreme weather have deteriorated, with 66% reporting worsened conditions over the past year. Reflecting on the future, 59% of respondents are more worried about climate change than they were last year.
Launched in 2021, the UNDP’s People’s Climate Vote, executed in collaboration with the University of Oxford, spans 77 countries, covering 87% of the world’s population.
