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Support for climate action in Luxembourg is high, but many draw the line at personal cost — a tension experts say highlights the need for more accessible solutions.
Luxembourgers are well informed about the causes and consequences of climate change. However, when it comes to taking action, there is still room for improvement, says Dr Claudia Hitaj from the Ministry of the Environment and the Luxembourg Climate Observatory (OPC). She was a guest on RTL Radio on Tuesday morning.
Her appearance follows the results publication of a survey conducted last autumn by the OPC in collaboration with LISER last week. According to the findings, 89 percent of Luxembourg's citizens consider climate and environmental issues important, and 83 percent believe that climate change must be stopped.
Sustainability? Sure, but it shouldn't cost too much
While 63 per cent of respondents want the Luxembourg government to do more to combat climate change, 60 per cent also believe that such measures should not incur any personal cost. Dr Hitaj notes that this is not necessarily contradictory. 72 per cent expressed a willingness to take action against climate change, but many lack the financial means to do so.
The OPC believes it is up to the government to create conditions that make sustainable choices the easier, more accessible option.
The survey also reveals a concern that climate protection measures might deepen social inequalities. To address this, the OPC supports a social climate plan (that is currently in the works) aimed at ensuring that climate-friendly actions are accessible to everyone, and not just those with money.
Effectiveness of climate protection measures often misjudged
Participants in the survey were asked to assess the effectiveness of various climate protection measures. Many responses aligned with the scientific findings, but some were either overestimated or underestimated. For instance, recycling and local shopping were often seen as more efficient than they really are. In contrast, actions such as switching from petrol to electric cars or adopting a vegetarian diet were underestimated.
Nonetheless, the OPC wants to add nuance to its findings. While their evaluation focused strictly on climate impact, they acknowledge that practices like recycling and buying organic or regional products are crucial for biodiversity and resource conservation.
Dr Hitaj also underscores the effectiveness of switching from cars to public transport or electric vehicles, as well as the importance of insulating homes.
Young people feel unprepared for climate change consequences
The survey included responses from both adults and young people aged 15 to 21. Results show that while young respondents understand and can explain climate change, only half feel sufficiently prepared for its consequences.
In terms of sources of information around climate change, social media tops the ranking a 67 percent, followed by schools at 51 percent. Within schools, teachers have the greatest influence, given they lead climate-related activities.
