A new statewide survey from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) captures a familiar California tension: deep support for environmental protection alongside mounting anxiety about affordability. Majorities back ambitious clean-energy targets—including the 100% renewable standard by 2045—and more than half say strict environmental rules are worth the cost. Yet many residents are uneasy about rising electricity and gasoline prices, reflecting day-to-day pressures that can make even popular climate goals feel out of reach.
The findings also surface frustration with wildfire policy and climate-smart growth. Roughly 80% of respondents are dissatisfied with government efforts on wildfire prevention and recovery, a sign that people want faster, clearer action. And the share of Californians who think climate risks should be factored into where we build homes has climbed from 41% to 51%, suggesting a shift in how residents weigh safety, insurance, and long-term resilience. Taken together, the message is clear: Californians still want ambitious climate action—paired with practical plans to keep energy affordable, harden communities against fires, and align housing with risk.
What this means
-
Policy trade-offs are unavoidable: Voters support climate goals but need credible affordability guardrails.
-
Wildfire is the stress test: Visible results on prevention and recovery will shape broader climate trust.
-
Housing must adapt: More residents expect climate risk to be embedded in planning and approvals.