WEF Survey Reveals Environmental Risks as Top Global Threats for the Next Decade

Extreme weather events are increasingly seen as a top concern for the future. According to the World Economic Forum’s recent Global Risks Perception Survey 2024-2025, these climate-related risks lead the list for the second consecutive year. Other significant threats include biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse.

The survey gathered insights from over 900 experts in various fields, such as academia, business, and government. It highlights the broad impact of “global risks”—events that could harm large populations, economies, or natural resources.

Here’s a quick overview of the top long-term risks identified:

• 1. Extreme weather events
• 2. Biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse
• 3. Critical changes to Earth systems
• 4. Natural resource shortages

In the short term, the survey emphasized that “state-based armed conflict” tops the list of immediate risks for 2025, with concerns about geopolitical tensions on the rise. Misinformation is also a key issue, as it can destabilize societies and erode trust in governance, complicating efforts to address shared challenges.

Interestingly, the survey revealed a generational divide regarding environmental risks. Younger individuals, particularly those under 30, expressed more concern about pollution than older groups. They ranked it as the third most severe risk for 2035, showing a growing awareness of environmental issues.

Pollution is currently ranked sixth among short-term risks, reflecting increasing recognition of its harmful effects on health and ecosystems. The public sector considers pollution a major risk, unlike the private sector, which hasn’t prioritized it in the same way.

The overall outlook presents a troubling picture for the next decade, particularly regarding environmental risks. As the survey indicates, challenges related to geopolitics, society, and technology are interlinked and pose dangers to stability and progress. Although economic risks aren’t as prominent in this year’s results, they still represent a concern, especially as they connect with other societal and geopolitical tensions.

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climate change,climate finance,emissions,extreme weather,fossil fuels,renewable energy