The impact of social capital on European concerns about climate change

Abstract

Climate change poses one of the most pressing global challenges, with its consequences affecting ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide. Addressing climate change effectively requires broad public engagement and policy action, yet public concern and willingness to act vary significantly across different countries and social groups. This study explores the role of social capital in shaping climate change concerns across European countries, examining how social networks, institutional trust, and civic engagement influence public attitudes toward climate change.

Using data from the European Social Survey (ESS8), this research employs a multilevel statistical analysis to assess the extent to which social capital factors contribute to variations in climate change concern across 23 European countries. Findings suggest that individuals with stronger social networks and higher institutional trust are more likely to express concern about climate change. However, the strength of this relationship varies by demographic factors such as education, income, and political ideology. Notably, institutional trust plays a key role in shaping environmental attitudes, with individuals in countries with higher GDP levels exhibiting stronger correlations between trust in institutions and climate change concerns.

The study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that social capital is a critical determinant of environmental concern and that fostering trust in institutions and strengthening community networks could enhance public support for climate policies. The results have significant implications for policymakers, suggesting that increasing institutional transparency and promoting civic engagement may serve as effective strategies for encouraging climate action at both national and European levels.