Perceptions of “Environmental Doomsday” in a Non-Western Context: Chinese Views of Global, Ecological Collapse, and Their Policy Implications

As the adverse impact of human activity is growing day-by-day, science is cautioning against a catastrophic ecological overshoot or tipping point. China has a vital role to play in this, negatively or positively. In this context, a critical, yet, under-researched question is how young, urban Chinese—a generation of future leaders, executives and campaigners—understand “environmental doomsday.” This article addresses this shortfall based on embedded experimental survey, interviews, and literature research. The study finds over two-thirds of young Chinese respondents concerned or extremely concerned about the world’s environment, with over one-third stating that human development is unsustainable. Paradoxically, however, a majority only wants to shoulder environmental responsibilities provided these do not require personal sacrifice. On top of this, many lack understanding of critical issues (including energy depletion, plastics pollution, and demographic pressure). In this context, we believe the time for non-binding policies has passed and fundamental change in Chinese (and global) environmental policy is inevitable.