Executive summary
This Working Paper explores the pivotal role of citizen engagement in advancing climate action and increasing the acceptance of green policies. The study examines the interplay of socioeconomic factors, self-efficacy, and peer influence on citizens’ willingness to adopt and support environmental-friendly policies. By leveraging advanced agent-based modelling (ABM) –and using a new data set produced by the Elcano Royal Institute as a result of its second survey on citizens and climate change– the analysis underscores the need for inclusive and participatory strategies to strengthen public support for climate change mitigation measuress.
Key findings
- Active participation in social discussions about climate change significantly boosts the acceptance of green policies.
- Current levels of citizen engagement in Spain remain low, with approximately 40% of individuals not discussing climate-related topics in their outer social circles (friends and work colleagues).
- Engagement amplifies the impact of peer pressure, leading to a ripple effect that increases overall societal support for climate policies.
- Misperceptions about the extent to which other people support climate action perpetuate silence (ie, not expressing one’s opinion for fear of it being a minority/unpopular view) and reduce collective action.
- Correcting these misperceptions can foster broader societal engagement and amplify support for green initiatives.
- The acceptance of green policies varies significantly across regions.
- Increasing citizen engagement at the regional level reduces the gap between national and regional support for climate policies.
- Socioeconomic disparities negatively affect self-efficacy and engagement, particularly in marginalised communities.
- Poorer regions exhibit lower green propensity under regressive policies, while progressive policies lead to a higher likelihood of climate policy acceptance in poorer regions and a limited reduction in policy acceptance in wealthier regions compared with the national mean.
- A citizen’s perceived ability to make meaningful contributions to climate action (self-efficacy) is a critical determinant of policy support.
- Self-efficacy is strongly influenced by income and education, creating disparities in green behaviour across different societal segments.
Policy recommendations
- Encourage open discussions on climate topics in peoples’ outer social networks (friends and work colleagues) to mitigate the effects of pluralistic ignorance and boost collective climate action.
- Implement citizen assemblies, stakeholder dialogues and collaborative platforms to ensure diverse voices are represented in policymaking.
- Use digital platforms to enhance communication and engagement, and support community-based sustainability projects.
- Implement targeted interventions for marginalised communities, including economic support and locally tailored initiatives to bridge regional gaps in policy acceptance.
- Develop public campaigns to raise awareness about climate issues and foster an understanding of individual contributions to climate mitigation.
Conclusions
This Working Paper underscores the importance of addressing heterogeneity in societal responses to climate policies. Tailored interventions that enhance self-efficacy, leverage peer influence and promote active citizen engagement are critical for fostering widespread acceptance of green policies. Policymakers are encouraged to prioritise inclusivity, equity and regional considerations in the design and implementation of climate strategies, ensuring a just and effective transition to a low-carbon future.
Graphical abstract
Image: Global climate change protest demonstration strike – No Planet B. Photo: Markus Spiske (@markusspiske).
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