In the near term, top business leaders, scholars, and politicians are more concerned about geoeconomic tensions than severe weather events.
Climate Concerns Fall on Global Leaders’ Short-Term List Ahead of Davos
Environmental issues like climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss have dropped in priority for business leaders, academics, and politicians in the short term, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Perception Survey.
Economic risks, including geoeconomic tensions, inflation, and potential recessions, now top their immediate concerns, overtaking extreme weather. Survey experts warned that while long-term environmental risks remain high—especially over the next decade—short-term focus is slipping.
Climate scientist Johan Rockström noted that shifting priorities don’t mean issues are disconnected, as global trends like misinformation and inequality intersect with climate action.
Despite rising impacts, including three consecutive record-hot years, media coverage of climate change fell in 2025 compared with previous years, raising concerns about public awareness and preparedness.
