A recent survey by Global Technology Company Epson, the Epson Climate Reality Barometer, reveals that 72.1% of Kenyans are willing to invest in electric vehicles (EVs) to help combat climate change. The survey, which collected responses from over 30,000 individuals across 39 countries, highlights the growing perception of climate change as the foremost global challenge, with technology seen as a key tool for addressing the crisis. In Kenya, repeated droughts have devastated livestock populations, emphasizing the urgency for sustainable solutions.
The findings show that climate change ranks higher among Kenyans than other global concerns, with 70.7% of respondents identifying it as the most pressing issue, followed by rising prices at 62.1% and poverty at 54.3%. Concern is especially high among those aged 30 and above, with 74.4% prioritizing climate action compared to 59.8% of younger respondents. Despite the challenges, optimism is strong, with 75.2% of Kenyans believing it is possible to avert a climate disaster within their lifetimes, well above the global average of 47%. This hope is reflected in positive sentiments about the next 12 months, with nearly half of respondents feeling hopeful and over 40% optimistic.
Kenyans also indicate clear priorities for corporate climate action. Top measures include investing in environmental technologies (68.8%) and improving recycling and product reuse (57.5%). Yasunori Ogawa, Epson’s global president, emphasizes the importance of understanding public attitudes and the role of technology in achieving sustainable development goals. He highlights the need to listen to younger generations, whose experiences with climate change will shape long-term strategies. Overall, the survey underscores the willingness of Kenyan citizens to embrace innovative solutions like EVs, reflecting a national commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.