Public concern about climate change in the Netherlands has dropped to its lowest level since 2019, according to new research by opinion pollsters Ipsos I&O.

The survey shows that although awareness of the climate crisis has increased, people — particularly the young — no longer see it as an urgent issue.

The researchers found that many young people still recognise the potentially devastating consequences of climate change, but consider it an “abstract concept” with “little tangible impact on their immediate surroundings”.

As a result, Ipsos I&O said, they consider other issues, such as housing, education, work and migration, to be more pressing.

The share of people who think the government should do more to tackle climate change has declined across all age groups. While 47% of the population supported more action from the government two years ago, that number now stands at 42%.

Young people still tend to support stronger climate action more than older age groups, but that support is waning. In 2023, 61% of 18- to 24-year-olds said the government should do more; in the latest survey that figure has dropped to 54%.

Ipsos I&O researcher Maartje van Will told broadcaster NOS that many youngsters feel “stuck in a system” they cannot influence.

“They do see that the problem exists, but they feel held back in many ways from taking action,” she said. “They also say: if companies and countries are not taking responsibility, what impact can I have as an individual?”

The survey found that the scale of the climate challenge and the perceived lack of progress is contributing to widespread feelings of gloom, particularly among young adults. While 51% of all Dutch people are pessimistic about the future of coming generations, this rises to 59% among 18- to 24-year-olds and 63% among those aged 25 to 34.

Even so, awareness of the human role in climate change has grown. Just 20% of young respondents now say it makes no difference what they do personally — down from 38% two years ago.

Some 60% of youngsters know that meat production is harmful to the environment, compared to 41% of the population overall. They are also more likely to mention concrete measures, such as flying less, buying fewer clothes and insulating their homes.