Apathy and opposition: Understanding the real threats to net zero
Think tank: IPPR
Author(s): Becca Massey-Chase; Steve Akehurst; Sam Alvis
March 20, 2026
This report from UK think tank IPPR examines the threats to climate action.
Climate action is under siege from populist and far-right actors. Delivering under that pressure demands fresh confidence and commitment from government.
Watering down ambition offers no electoral advantage; a strong, progressive agenda on climate action remains broadly popular with the public.
Elite opinion on net zero is highly polarised, with a precipitous drop in support on the political right since the general election in 2024. This is not mirrored in public opinion, where support has remained steady and is much higher than politicians credit. The notion of a wide-spread public backlash against net zero in the UK is a largely exaggerated one, amplified by right-leaning media.
