New report: Strong support for ambitious climate policy among Swedes

The report “Redo för klimatomställning” Pdf, 1.4 MB. (Pdf, 1.4 MB) is based on a survey of over 5,000 respondents and is statistically representative of the Swedish population. According to the data, 58 percent of Swedes prefer that politicians invest in climate action rather than focus on keeping petrol prices low. While support for increasing fuel taxes is more limited, the report notes that of the 25 percent strongly opposed to higher petrol and diesel taxes, more than half would support such measures if low-income and rural households received financial compensation.

“Our survey shows that Swedes prioritise climate concerns over fuel prices. Fairness is a key factor in building public support for climate policies. Many who initially oppose raising carbon taxes change their stance when those most affected are compensated,” says Daniel Lindvall, Doctor of Sociology at Uppsala University.

Swedes want to be at the forefront of the climate transition

The report also finds strong support for Sweden taking a leading role in global climate efforts, given the country’s wealth and relatively high per-capita emissions. 60 percent of respondents favour stricter climate targets, while 70 percent see the climate transition as an opportunity to create new jobs. At the same time, 64 percent acknowledge that the transition will be costly and require sacrifices.

“The public debate often portrays Swedes as reluctant to embrace climate policy, which is used to justify lower ambitions. But our findings show that a majority, across the political spectrum, support bold measures and want Sweden to lead. It’s time to raise our climate ambitions,” says Mikael Karlsson, Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Uppsala University.

Widespread support for wind and nuclear power – but not in every backyard

Public support for wind power remains strong: three out of four Swedes want more wind power built in the country, and 58 percent are open to installations within five kilometres of their homes. Nuclear energy also receives considerable support – 53 percent back an expansion – but opinions are more divided when it comes to placement. Only 44 percent are open to having nuclear power in their own municipality, while 39 percent are firmly opposed.

“Attitudes toward wind and nuclear energy are influenced by the polarised energy debate. But when people are asked to take a stance on having these power plants near their homes, ideology seems to matter less. Political views tend to fade when energy issues become concrete and personal,” says Stephan Barthel, Professor of Environmental Science at the University of Gävle and Programme Director at Fairtrans.

Read the full report in Swedish here » Pdf, 1.4 MB. (Pdf, 1.4 MB)