Dimensions of environmentalism: Public opinion, political activism and party support in australia

Public opinion on the environment is usually viewed as a homogeneous entity. This assumption can be questioned by identifying the major dimensions of public opinion on environmentalism using national survey data collected in Australia in late 1990. The public conceptualises the environment in terms of three dimensions: a cosmopolitan dimension, encompassing national and international concerns; a local dimension focusing on general concerns; and a local dimension concerned solely with damage to land. Cosmopolitanism has its roots in value change, stimulates increased environmental activism, and helps to mobilise support for and against the major political parties. By contrast, there is less popular support for self-interested local environmental concerns, and this dimension has fewer political implications. The role of political parties in politicising these dimensions is central and raises questions about the continuing electoral presence of green parties and groups within the Australian party system.