American Consumers and the Sustainability Agenda

Despite political shifts, public support for sustainability and corporate advocacy remains strong.

In the wake of the 2025 U.S. presidential election, many have wondered whether American views on sustainability and corporate responsibility have shifted. At GlobeScan, we’ve been tracking public opinion through our annual Healthy & Sustainable Living study. Most recently we launched Sustainability in the USA Report, based on a flash poll survey of 1,000 U.S. consumers conducted in late March 2025.

What we found is both surprising and reassuring: American values around sustainability have largely remained stable—and in some cases, strengthened.

Insight #1: Americans Still See Sustainability Challenges as a Top Priority

Perceptions of global challenges like climate change, poverty, and pollution remain steady. Our latest data shows that concern around most environmental and social issues is unchanged since our last major survey in August 2024. Notable exceptions are:

• 7 pt increase in concern over the spread of human diseases

• 8 pt decrease in concern over water pollution

From a long-term tracking perspective, we can see that concern around climate change remains at historic highs in the US.

Implication:

Despite political turbulence, core societal values are holding firm. Americans continue to prioritize sustainability, providing a stable foundation for long-term progress.

Insight #2: Americans Want Businesses to Speak Out

Even amid growing political backlash and rising pressure for companies to “greenhush,” American consumers still want companies to lead on sustainability and social issues.

• 71% agree that CEOs should speak out on climate change

• 67% agree that CEOs should speak out on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

This support extends across political lines. Notably, among Republican voters:

• 38% want companie

• s to actively support DEI

• Only 19% want companies to oppose it

Implication:

The loudest voices in today’s culture wars don’t always reflect the majority. Consumers expect leadership, and companies that meet these expectations may benefit in both reputation and trust.

Insight #3: Demand for Sustainable Products is Growing

More Americans are aligning their purchases with their values:

• 49% report buying an environmentally friendly product in the last month (up from 43% in August 2024)

• 36% wanted to buy one but couldn’t (due to availability, affordability, etc.)

• Only 15% show no interest in sustainable products

Implication:

Sustainability is not a fringe trend—it’s mainstream. The market signal is clear: there’s a growing appetite for sustainable goods. Brands that make these products accessible and visible stand to gain significantly.

🔗 Want to learn more? Download the full Sustainability in the USA Report

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