How important is climate protection for Austrian companies? How do companies evaluate climate policy? And which measures do they consider useful? These questions were the focus of a study conducted by KMU Forschung Austria and KONTEXT - Institute for Climate Issues.

Businesses are committed to climate protection

The analysis shows The majority of companies see climate protection as their own responsibility and want to give it a high strategic priority. At the same time, the majority support government intervention - as long as it is effective, fair and business-friendly.

Financial support as a key factor

Public funding is essential for companies to manage the transition. Small businesses in particular feel disadvantaged and want programs that are less bureaucratic and easier to access.

Business credibility and trust in climate policy low

Despite general support for climate policy measures, many companies are critical of the credibility of politicians. Partisan and vested interests, as well as poor implementation, undermine trust in government climate action.

Recommendations for successful climate policy

To further strengthen acceptance, policymakers should create reliable framework conditions, implement targeted measures with high impact, and ensure transparency. A cross-party consensus and clear positioning of interest groups would also contribute to credibility.