Wealth Does Not Dictate Concern For The Environment
A study of several dozen nations with different economic situations found that those living in relatively poorer nations are equally or more concerned about the environment when compared with those living in wealthier nations.
Representative samples of citizens across several dozen nations expressed similar concern about environmental quality. Citizens of poorer nations showed equal or more concern than citizens of wealthier nations and were relatively more supportive of efforts to solve environmental problems.
Researchers believe that previous studies failed to recognize that environmental issues threaten more than just the quality of life; they affect material welfare as well. This research suggests that “well-designed policies to promote sustainable development will have more appeal to citizens of poor nations than is often assumed.”