Study: Linking climate change to health doubles support for public action

A study by the Climate Opinion Research Exchange (Core) for the Wellcome Trust found that linking climate change to health impacts significantly boosts public support for government action. The research surveyed over 30,000 people across Brazil, India, Japan, and South Africa between September and October 2025, using 12 climate-health messages against four traditional climate messages. Results showed public concern and support for climate policies doubled when health risks were emphasized, with over 80% of respondents across all countries concerned about climate change and its health effects. In South Africa, concerns centered on children’s health, food and water security, and maternal health, while Brazil prioritized mental health and food/water insecurity. India’s respondents focused on air pollution and healthcare access, while Japan highlighted extreme heat, air pollution, infectious diseases, and risks to older people. South Africa had the highest concern, with 87% of respondents worried about climate change and 85% demanding stronger government action. The study tested support for climate policies tied to health protection, with all measures receiving at least 58% approval. South Africans strongly backed solar parks (94%), heatwave-resistant public buildings (92%), offshore wind (87%), and onshore wind (85%). Extreme weather—droughts, floods, and heatwaves—has already disrupted healthcare, water, and food systems in the country. Researchers noted that messaging on extreme heat, food/water insecurity, and children’s health had the strongest influence globally. The findings suggest reframing climate action as a health priority could accelerate policy adoption and public engagement.