Majority Of Indians Want Fossil Fuel Giants Taxed To Fund Climate Relief: Survey

A global survey has revealed overwhelming public backing for taxing fossil fuel companies to fund climate damage recovery. In India, 8 out of 10 people support levying taxes on oil and gas corporations to make them pay for the environmental harm they cause.

The survey, commissioned by Greenpeace International and Oxfam International and released at the ongoing UN Climate Meetings in Bonn (SB62), highlights a growing global consensus that polluting industries must bear financial responsibility for the escalating climate crisis. Conducted across 13 countries, including major G7 nations, the survey underscores public demand for fairer climate financing.

In India, support cuts across political lines as 89 per cent of BJP supporters and 82 per cent of Congress (INC) voters back higher taxes on fossil fuel firms to help communities impacted by climate disasters. Nationally, 87 per cent want revenue from these taxes directed towards affected populations, especially in the Global South.

“The science is undeniable—fossil fuel companies have driven the climate crisis, yet continue to profit while vulnerable communities suffer,” said Selomi Garnaik of Greenpeace India. “This survey shows a clear mandate: make polluters pay.”

The findings were released alongside the Polluters Pay Pact, a growing global alliance of frontline communities, first responders, unions, NGOs, and local leaders demanding new taxes and penalties on oil, coal, and gas companies. Supported by over 60 organisations worldwide, including 350.org, Avaaz, Islamic Relief UK, and the Greenpeace network, the pact calls for urgent action as climate impacts deepen.

Key global findings:

- 81 per cent support taxing fossil fuel firms to pay for climate-related disasters.
- 77 per cent say they’d back political candidates who prioritise taxing the super-rich and polluters.
- 68 per cent believe fossil fuel companies and elites negatively influence national politics.

Amitabh Behar, Executive Director of Oxfam International, added, “It’s time governments stood with people, not polluters. A new tax on these corporations could deliver critical funds for climate resilience and shift the world towards a fairer, greener future.”