Concerned but not paying: Attitudes to the green transition and willingness to pay
When:
—
Venue:
Online
We are pleased to announce the 2nd Seminar Series on Governance, Institutions, and Sustainability jointly hosted by the Centre for Political Economy and Institutional Studies and by the Birkbeck Responsible Business Centre, within the Birkbeck Business School.
In our rapidly evolving world, the intricate web connecting governance, institutions, and sustainability has become increasingly prominent. We invite scholars, researchers, and practitioners to enhance this very important debate and to join us in exploring the profound intertwining of these critical elements at our upcoming seminar series.
Abstract
This paper examines attitudes towards climate change and willingness to pay for policies that mitigate it, drawing on the latest wave of the Life in Transition Survey. While most survey respondents are concerned about climate change and damage to the environment, such concerns do not necessarily translate into a willingness to pay more tax or forgo economic growth and job creation in order to prioritise environmental policies. People in higher income households, individuals who expect to be better off in the future, people who are more patient (placing more value on future income) and individuals who trust the government are all more likely to be willing to pay for policies that mitigate climate change. Thus, measures that increase people’s incomes, build trust in government, reduce corruption and increase the transparency and efficiency of government spending could help to boost support for green policies. Communication is also key – not only in relation to the threat posed by climate change, but also as regards progress with the rollout of green technologies. Policies may receive greater support if they take the form of subsidies (where the costs in terms of higher taxes are less salient) or if people can see immediate benefits (as in the case of measures limiting the impact of natural disasters or reducing the concentration of local pollutants).
Speaker
Zsoka Koczan (European Bank for Reconstructions and Development, UK)
Convener/Organiser: Dr Luca Andriani
Contact name:
Luca Andriani
- Zsoka Koczan (European Bank for Reconstructions and Development, UK)