The European Green Deal (EGD) is a strategy designed to transform the European Union's economy into a more sustainable and environmentally friendly model while fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens. Its ultimate goal is to achieve climate neutrality in Europe by 2050, meaning greenhouse gas emissions would be reduced to levels that can be offset through natural or technological methods of their removal.

The European Green Deal remains a subject of lively debate in Poland. While part of the population strongly favours the green initiative, others express significant concerns about its potential impact. A survey conducted by engineering firm Multiconsult Polska, in collaboration with the PBS research agency in Sopot, sought to gauge public opinion on the EGD. The results showed that 42.7% of those surveyed supported the overall principles of the EU programme, while a nearly equal proportion, 40%, opposed it.

The survey revealed that the strongest support came from the youngest (18-24) and oldest (pensioners) groups, with 45.7% and 47.6% backing the initiative, respectively. However, those aged 35 to 44 were notably more sceptical, with only 33.5% of respondents in this age group expressing support for the green project.

Many Poles are concerned that the EU's Green Deal could lead to higher energy and heating costs, increased taxes, and rising food prices. In an interview, Gabriel Ligęska, head of the energy auditing team at Multiconsult Poland, acknowledged these concerns:

"The geopolitical situation and the climate crisis clearly demonstrate the urgent need for changes in both the Polish and European energy mix. Green energy presents a real opportunity for both economies and households, although challenges remain, particularly regarding costs and energy storage."

The programme's initiators face the difficult task of convincing the Polish public that these changes are essential for the long-term sustainability of the planet.

Source: WNP.pl