When asked to name the most important environmental issue facing California today, water and drought were named most often (22%), followed by wildfires (18%), climate change (16%), air pollution and vehicle emissions (8%), and energy (5%). Last year, 30 percent said water and drought was the most important environmental issue; fewer named wildfires (13%) and climate change (11%).
When it comes to specific climate policy goals set by the state and federal government, nearly three in four adults and 69 percent of likely voters are in favor of the state law that requires California to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. About two in three or more have supported this goal since 2017. About a quarter or more oppose (26% adults, 30% likely voters). There is partisan division on this issue, while majorities across demographic and regional groups are in favor.
Seven in ten or fewer adults and likely voters favor the state’s goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible, and no later than 2045; three in ten or more adults and likely voters oppose. There is partisan division on this issue as well, and support varies across demographic groups and regions.
Nearly three in four adults and likely voters favor the Biden administration’s goal of attaining carbon neutrality by 2050, meaning that US carbon dioxide emissions would not exceed the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere. Today, about one in four adults and likely voters oppose this goal. A similar share was in favor last July. Partisans today are divided, while solid majorities across demographic groups and regions are in favor. Nearly seven in ten adults nationwide (69%) supported this goal early last year, according to a Pew Research Center survey.
Janice is a full-time mom who likes to write on a range of topics in her spare time. She specializes in the Home, Garden, and Recycling topics. Janice is our Lifestyle and positive vibe expert. She keeps the office running.
