Research published by Ireland’s Just Transition Commission shows that 81% of people believe climate actions are unfair to some groups, with rural residents (51%), farmers (50%) and those on lower incomes seen as most affected.

The report found there is strong public support for climate action, but there are concerns over fairness, affordability and trust.

The findings highlight the importance of fairness in how Ireland's climate transition is managed, particularly for those on lower incomes, rural communities and the farming sector.

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Some 64% of respondents see climate change as an immediate and urgent problem, while 77% are at least somewhat worried about climate change.

A total of 41% agree that Ireland’s climate transition can be managed in a just and fair way, while 35% are optimistic that, by acting together, Ireland can transition to climate neutrality by 2050.

The survey found that 57% of respondents feel they are not well informed about Ireland's climate transition and 56% say access to information on climate action is insufficient, highlighting the need for clearer and more accessible information about the transition and the supports available.

Fairness

The findings of the research send a clear message, according to chair of the Just Transition Commission Ali Sheridan.

"People recognise the need for climate action and want Ireland to succeed in the transition to a climate-neutral future. At the same time, people are very clear that how we make this transition matters.

"The success of this transition will not be measured by emissions reductions alone. It will also be measured by whether people experience the transition as fair and affordable and whether they have a meaningful voice in shaping it."

She added that for policymakers, the research reinforces that that fairness is not an optional consideration, it is fundamental to building public trust, maintaining support for climate action and delivering lasting climate policy.

"These findings provide an important evidence base for the commission's advice to Government and establish a benchmark against which progress can be measured in the years ahead,” Sheridan concluded.