- Public concern for climate change has sharply declined in Kenya and South Africa, according to new findings released today at the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) General Assembly.
- The 2025 Global Consumer Awareness Survey, conducted in partnership with IPSOS across 50 countries and over 40,000 respondents, shows that war and conflict (52%) now top global worries, while climate change trails at 31%—despite 2024 being the hottest year on record.
Survey data from Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt—participating for the first time—highlight notable regional differences:
- Kenya saw climate concern drop from 42% in 2022 to 30% in 2025. Yet deforestation remains a top priority, with 47% of Kenyans citing it as a key issue—the highest globally.
- South Africa experienced a more modest decline in climate concern (32% → 25%), but 42% of respondents expressed strong concern over biodiversity loss.
- Egypt reported the highest concern for wildfires among the three countries, with 32% identifying them as a major environmental challenge.
Droughts and floods also emerged as pressing issues in Kenya, with 40% of respondents flagging them—10 and 13 percentage points higher than South Africa and Egypt, respectively.
People connect the dots between forests, water, and livelihoods,” said Subhra Bhattacharjee, FSC Director General. “Protecting forests isn’t just about trees—it’s about resilience and hope in a changing climate.”
Kenya also leads globally in recognising the climate impact of forest loss, with 43% of respondents acknowledging its role—well above the global average of 35%.
Despite shifting priorities, sustainability remains a key factor in purchasing decisions. Across 29 markets, 72% of consumers prefer products that do not harm plants or animals. In Kenya, 79% of respondents believe sustainability claims should be certified by independent organisations.
“Even as global priorities shift, people here continue to care about forests and the livelihoods they sustain,” said Annah Agasha, Deputy Director of FSC Africa. “They want transparency, fairness, and proof that the products they buy make a real difference.”
As global attention turns to war, pandemics, and inflation, FSC warns that climate change risks fading from political and consumer consciousness. The organisation urges integrated strategies that balance environmental action with social and economic security.
These findings are being actively debated this week at the FSC General Assembly, where global stakeholders are shaping the future of responsible forest management and its role in addressing climate emergencies.
Link to the full survey HERE
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
