Income, Climate Attitudes and Drivers of Sustainable Behavior: Survey Data from the Netherlands (n = 1,124)

This dataset is part of a research project examining the motivations and barriers for climate-related behavior among individuals with a high socio-economic position (SEP) in the Netherlands, with a particular focus on income. The top 10% income group plays a crucial role in the climate transition. Their consumption patterns are associated with disproportionately large environmental impacts, particularly in domains such as housing, energy use, and transport. At the same time, they hold significant potential to influence others through their social networks, professional roles, and financial resources. Despite this, the role of high-SEP groups in driving reductions in consumption and shaping social norms around sustainable behavior remains underexplored in research and policy.To address this gap, the research combines a literature review with a nationally representative survey conducted in the Netherlands (n = 1,124). The central research question is: what are motivations and barriers of individuals with a high socio-economic position to engage in climate-relevant behavior?The dataset includes responses to 55 survey questions across five thematic areas:Concerns about climate change – levels of concern and differences across income groups.Perceptions of roles and influence – how individuals perceive their ability to contribute to climate mitigation across roles such as consumer, investor, organizational actor, citizen, and role model, and how they assess the influence of government, business, and citizens.Current behavior and social norms – self-reported high-impact consumption behaviors (e.g. flying, meat consumption, car ownership), and perceptions of norms within one’s social environment and society at large.Willingness to change – readiness to reduce consumption voluntarily and support for policy measures that regulate behavior, including perceptions of entitlement.Knowledge of climate impact – understanding of the environmental impact of individual behaviors.The dataset enables analysis of how income relates to environmental impact, attitudes, perceived responsibility, and behavioral intentions. It can be used to inform research, policy, and interventions aimed at achieving a more effective and equitable climate transition, particularly by engaging high-income groups.For questions about the dataset or opportunities for collaboration, please contact Danique Bredenoort ([email protected]).