Survey shows 75% of Japanese taking climate action, but not enough

As the planet enters what scientists have dubbed the era of “Global Boiling,” a new survey reveals that 75% of people in Japan are taking individual action to address environmental challenges. However, only 23% are engaging in more proactive measures, such as switching to renewable energy or donating to environmental organizations.

The findings come from the 5th Consumer Environmental Crisis Awareness Survey, conducted by the AGC Asahi Glass Foundation. The survey examined the attitudes of 1,092 respondents between the ages of 10 and 69. The sample included 522 members of Generation Z (ages 18-24) and 570 adults (ages 25-69).

For the fifth consecutive year, climate change was the top environmental concern, with 45.5% of respondents identifying it as a critical issue. Respondents expressed fears over the increasing occurrence of prolonged heavy rain events, extreme heat, and food shortages due to crop failures. The survey also found that 47.7% of respondents were concerned about the loss of biodiversity, with adults showing slightly higher concern than members of Generation Z.

In an attempt to quantify public anxiety, the foundation used the Environmental Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of environmental crisis awareness. The clock is set between 0:01 and 12:00, with midnight symbolizing an impending environmental catastrophe. The survey found that on average, the clock stood at 6:59, reflecting a high level of concern. Among Generation Z, the clock was at 6:43, while adults placed it at 7:13, indicating a slightly greater sense of urgency among older respondents.

Despite these concerns, only a minority of respondents reported taking more assertive actions to combat climate change. Three-quarters of those surveyed said they were engaged in small-scale actions such as using eco-friendly transportation, choosing locally sourced or seasonal foods, or recycling appliances and clothing. On the other hand, just 22.5% reported switching to renewable energy or donating to environmental groups. There is a gap between climate anxiety and climate action.

The survey also explored perceptions of progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As of 2023, respondents felt that only 24.7% of the goals had been achieved on average. Generation Z reported slightly more optimism at 30.5%, compared to 23.8% among older respondents.

Looking ahead to 2030, the goals expected to see the most progress were Zero Hunger, Clean Water and Sanitation for All, and No Poverty. However, pessimism prevailed when it came to the likelihood of achieving Gender Equality, No Poverty, and Decent Work and Economic Growth. For the second year in a row, Generation Z identified Gender Equality as the goal they were least optimistic about, reflecting ongoing concerns about societal inequality.

As Japan faces growing environmental challenges, the survey highlights the gap between awareness and action. While small everyday actions are widespread, a more significant shift in behavior is required to meet the urgent demands of the climate crisis.