Brazilian voters are showing deep concern regarding climate change, demanding concrete proposals from candidates for the 2026 Elections, while remaining divided over oil exploration at the Mouth of the Amazon.
The environmental agenda is gaining significant weight in the Brazilian political landscape as the 2026 Elections approach. A recent Ipsos survey, commissioned by the Climate Observatory (Observatório do Clima), reveals remarkable public engagement: 91% of voters believe it is essential for candidates to present clear proposals to address climate change.
This finding highlights a growing awareness of environmental challenges and the expectation that the issue will be a priority in political platforms.
Although the majority views climate issues as essential, the survey points out that in the ranking of national problems, they occupy the ninth position, overshadowed by concerns such as public safety and healthcare quality.
However, within the environmental spectrum, combating climate change is the most urgent issue for 35% of respondents, followed by waste management and air pollution.
The Quest for Clean Energy and Governmental Dissatisfaction
Dissatisfaction with the government’s response to climate disasters is palpable, with 47% of Brazilians expressing deep discontent.
At the same time, the demand for renewable energy emerges as one of the main solutions: 53% of voters see the expansion of clean energy projects as a government priority, second only to strengthening sustainable agriculture and combating illegal deforestation.
Residential solar energy, for example, is viewed as crucial to lowering energy costs.
There is a consensus that Brazil must advance its energy transition. No less than 86% of those interviewed agree on the need to invest in renewable energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
Reducing methane emissions in the production and transport of oil and natural gas is also considered very important by 93% of the population. However, 68% of Brazilians believe the government lacks a strategic plan to address the climate crisis.
Marcio Astrini, executive secretary of the Climate Observatory, stated:
“The survey shows that Brazilians want commitments from candidates on the climate agenda, but unfortunately, that is not what is happening.”
He highlighted the gap between public demand and political supply.
The Mouth of the Amazon Dilemma
A notable point of division in the survey concerns oil exploration in environmentally sensitive areas. While the public calls for more sustainability, 41% of voters favor expanding oil production in regions such as the Mouth of the Amazon, contrasting with the 29% who strongly disagree.
This data reflects the complexity of Brazilian energy policy, where the pursuit of natural resources still finds popular support, despite the environmental risks.
Recently, Petrobras confirmed the presence of hydrocarbons in the Equatorial Margin, specifically in block FZA-M-59, intensifying the debate.
The license granted by Ibama for drilling the first well in the region late last year sparked strong protests from environmentalists, highlighting the clash between economic interests and environmental preservation.
The results of the Ipsos survey for the Climate Observatory are a clear indication that the climate agenda and energy transition can no longer be ignored by future leaders.
For the 2026 Elections, the ability of candidates to present effective and transparent solutions for climate change will be a determining factor.
Public opinion is increasingly attentive, and it is expected that this concern will translate into votes that shape a more sustainable future for Brazil, with an energy sector aligned with the needs of the planet and its citizens.
