84% Choose Nature Over Economic Growth in 10-Country Poll

People around the world are sending a clear message: protect nature first, worry about economic growth second.

A new global survey conducted by the Green Economy Coalition polled over 10,000 people across 10 countries and found that 84% would choose stronger environmental protection even if it slowed economic growth. The finding holds strong across different income levels and countries, showing this isn't just a wealthy nation concern.

The results come at a challenging time. The cost-of-living crisis continues squeezing households, and political momentum for climate action has stalled in many places. Yet people haven't turned away from environmental priorities. Instead, they increasingly see that the current economic system fails both them and the planet.

The survey reveals people want transformation, not minor adjustments. A striking 88% say governments should do more to combat climate change. Another 82% support major public investment in clean energy, even when it requires significant government spending.

These aren't abstract wishes. People understand that public investment and strong regulations are essential for building economies that deliver decent jobs, affordable energy, and healthy environments. Yet only 42% believe their government is taking more action this year than last, creating a growing gap between public expectations and political will.

The biggest barrier to sustainable living isn't apathy. It's lack of government support, cited by 52% of respondents globally. This reality hits hardest in lower-income countries like Nigeria, Turkey, and South Africa, where over 60% point to government inaction as the main obstacle.

People are asking for better laws, increased funding for environmental programs, and support for green jobs. They want governments to lead the transition, not leave it to individual choices and market forces that often reward pollution over sustainability.

The Ripple Effect

Trust in political leaders sits at just 39% globally, but low confidence hasn't dampened ambition. People still want bold reforms: stricter pollution regulations, stronger corporate accountability, and public investment focused on long-term wellbeing rather than short-term profits.

This shift reveals a deeper change in how people think about success. They're ready for economies measured by health, resilience, and shared prosperity instead of endless growth and extraction. The survey shows people understand that putting people and planet at the center isn't radical, it's necessary.

Political leaders now have a clear mandate backed by data from thousands of voices across continents. The public has done its part by showing up with support. The question remaining is whether governments will use their tools to build economies that actually work for everyone.

The evidence is in: people are ready for change now.