Poll Reveals Declining Concern for Climate Change Among Americans

Fewer Americans now see Climate change as a “very serious” problem compared to three years ago, according to a recent Monmouth University poll conducted from April 18-22, 2024. The survey reveals a notable shift in public perception, with only 46 percent of respondents categorizing Climate change as a “very serious” issue. This marks a 10-point decrease from 56 percent in September 2021.

Source: CBS News/YouTube

While 66 percent of Americans still consider climate change a serious concern, this is down from 70 percent in 2021. Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, suggests that this decline reflects a reduced sense of urgency among the public. “Most Americans continue to believe Climate change is real. The difference in these latest poll results is a decline in a sense of urgency around this issue,” Murray stated.

The drop in urgency is most pronounced among younger adults. Those aged 18-34, who previously viewed Climate change as a “very serious” problem at higher rates than other age groups, saw a significant 17-point decline. In 2021, 67 percent of young adults considered Climate change very serious, compared to just 50 percent in 2024. It’s worth noting that most adults still want action on Climate change.

Adults aged 35-54 experienced a smaller drop, with those viewing Climate change as a “very serious” problem decreasing from 48 percent to 44 percent. Similarly, adults aged 55 and older saw a decline from 54 percent to 44 percent over the same period.

Political affiliation also plays a role in these changing perceptions. Among Democrats, the belief that Climate change is a “very serious” problem dropped 8 points, from 85 percent in 2021 to 77 percent in 2024. Republicans also showed a decrease, from 21 percent to 13 percent, while independents saw a 13-point drop from 56 percent to 43 percent.

Additionally, the percentage of Americans who believe Climate change is not happening at all has increased slightly, from 18 percent in September 2021 to 23 percent in April 2024.

The Monmouth University poll surveyed 808 adults through phone interviews and online surveys, with a margin of error of +/- 4.1 percentage points. This data indicates a shifting landscape in the public’s perception of Climate change and highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing this critical issue.

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