Six in ten older people in England consider climate change a serious risk. At the same time, only a small minority—around one in 17 (5.8%)—dismiss such concerns altogether, according to new research led by University College London (UCL). The findings challenge common assumptions that older generations are largely disengaged from environmental issues, instead revealing widespread recognition of climate-related threats among this population.
The study, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, analysed survey responses from 6,572 individuals aged 50 and over across England. Participants were asked to indicate their level of agreement with a series of statements relating to climate change, allowing researchers to assess both awareness and attitudes towards environmental risks.
Based on these responses, the research team categorised participants into several distinct groups. Around 30% were classified as highly engaged with climate change, while a further 31% were considered engaged. Just over one fifth (22%) were uncertain or ambivalent, expressing mixed or unclear views. Smaller groups included those who were aware of the risks but felt fatalistic about the ability to address them (11%), and a minority who were dismissive (5.8%).
Age differences were also evident in how respondents viewed climate change. Individuals in their 50s were more likely to be highly engaged, whereas those in their 70s and beyond were more commonly found in the “risk-aware but fatalistic” category. These individuals recognised the seriousness of climate change but believed it was too late to take meaningful action, highlighting a sense of resignation among some older age groups.
The study further identified social and economic patterns linked to climate attitudes. Participants who were more financially secure, better educated, and socially active were significantly more likely to be engaged or highly engaged with climate risks. In contrast, those experiencing financial hardship or with lower levels of education were more likely to report uncertainty or ambivalence, suggesting that access to information and resources may shape environmental awareness.
Survey responses also revealed strong overall concern about climate impacts. A large majority (82%) agreed that people in the UK would be affected by climate change within the next 30 years, while 64% believed that continuing current trends could lead to a major environmental disaster. At the same time, nearly one-third of respondents felt that climate change was already beyond control. Researchers noted that older adults are not only vulnerable to climate-related events such as heatwaves and flooding, but also represent an influential group with high levels of political participation, meaning they have considerable potential to shape future climate action and policy.
More information: Giorgio Di Gessa et al, Attitudes toward Climate Change Risk Among Older People: New Evidence from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences. DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbag029
Journal information: The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences Provided by University College London
