People Significantly Underestimate the Carbon Footprints of the Wealthiest 1%

Research reveals a concerning trend in public perception regarding carbon footprints, highlighting that many individuals significantly underestimate the environmental impact of the wealthiest 1% while overestimating emissions from low-income populations. This misconception poses a potential threat to climate justice initiatives and may hinder support for effective climate change mitigation policies.

Kristian Nielsen from Copenhagen Business School emphasizes, “Our findings indicate that people vastly underestimate the carbon footprint associated with high-income groups. Furthermore, it is well-documented that affluent individuals play a disproportionate role in shaping the policies that gain traction in discussions surrounding climate action.”