The welfare state and support for environmental action in Europe

How do welfare state policies affect the political support for environmental action of economically vulnerable social groups? Two competing hypotheses can be delineated. On one hand, a synergy logic would imply that generosity is associated with higher among groups due to insecurity reducing effects state. other crowding-out suggest lower policy priorities like action. We test these two using 2019 Eurobarometer survey data and country-level indicators in 22 European countries. find working class elderly are particularly opposed individual national plays complex moderating role. Consistent logic, increases pro-environmental behaviour class, but its association more positive attitudes towards less strong. appear likely behave environmentally friendly ways if retirement benefits high. To explore mechanisms behind this association, we show who struggle pay their bills most Overall, economic insecurities key obstacles actions depend both on which group concerned whether versus preferences considered.