While concern about climate change remains high, fewer people believe their nations are doing enough—or leading the way—on climate action, particularly in India, New Zealand, and Australia

A report by Ipsos has shown a growing disconnect between public concern about climate change and confidence in national leadership across the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries. The ‘People and Climate Change Report 2025′, based on surveys conducted across 32 countries, revealed that while climate awareness remains high, belief in effective action and leadership is on the decline in several major economies.

India, one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, saw a significant drop in the percentage of people who believe the country is a global leader in combating climate change. In 2023, 71 per cent of Indian respondents considered India a climate leader. By 2025, that number has fallen to just 56 per cent—a sharp 15-point decline that signals growing public dissatisfaction with the pace or visibility of climate action.

This is especially notable as India continues to position itself globally as a champion of climate resilience, through its commitments to renewable energy expansion, green hydrogen, and sustainable infrastructure. Yet, the Ipsos data suggests a gap between policy announcements and public perception.

Australia and New Zealand: Low Confidence Despite High Exposure
In Australia, only 25 per cent of respondents believe their country is a world leader in the climate change fight. Despite being frequently impacted by climate-driven disasters like bushfires and droughts, Australians show limited confidence in their national efforts.

In New Zealand, public opinion also reflects fading trust in government climate leadership. While 58 per cent of Kiwis believe the country should do more to address climate change (down from 64 per cent in 2024), only 28 per cent think New Zealand is a global climate leader.

These findings indicate a pressing need for stronger government engagement, clearer communication of climate policies, and visible progress on green goals.

Southeast Asia: Strong Concern, Stronger Expectations
In Southeast Asia, the message is consistent—people are deeply worried and want more action. A staggering 90 per cent of Filipinos noted they are concerned about the impacts of climate change—the highest level across all 32 countries surveyed. With the Philippines often bearing the brunt of typhoons and sea-level rise, the demand for more urgent action is unsurprising.

Tne report stated that about 87 per cent of Indonesians expressed concern over climate change impacts, placing the country among the highest globally in climate worry. Around 79 per cent of Thais and 72 per cent of Malaysians said their governments should do more to combat climate change. Malaysia, in particular, has seen a rise in public urgency, up from 68 per cent in 2023 to 72 per cent in 2025.

While 81 per cent of Singaporeans are concerned about climate change, only 63 per cent feel their country should intensify efforts, suggesting a perceived disconnect between risk awareness and policy adequacy.

East Asia: Growing Concern, Limited Faith
In South Korea, 85 per cent now worry about the effects of climate change, reflecting a steady rise in public concern. Yet, similar to Japan, where concern rose from 69 per cent in 2022 to 81 per cent in 2025, expectations for stronger government action remain tempered. In Japan, only 49 per cent believe the country should do more, despite the rising worry.

To policymakers, the report stated that public concern is high, but confidence in climate leadership is waning. Whether due to perceived inaction, slow implementation, or lack of transparency, citizens across the region are demanding more urgency, accountability, and measurable progress.

The report suggested that governments must better communicate their climate agendas and successes to rebuild trust. Failing to align public sentiment with policy goals could undermine long-term support for climate initiatives and hinder international cooperation. As climate risks intensify—from rising sea levels and extreme weather to resource scarcity—the need for a visible and people-centred climate response has never been more urgent.