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How do Asian Americans stand on the issue of environmentalism? Their stance on this issue may also hint at their positions on other issues such as abortion or gay marriage, and may even suggest political affiliation. Regardless, Asian Americans are growing in numbers. As educated Americans, they too understand and realize the human impact on our environment. Naturally, it comes to no surprise that many Asian Americans are environmentalists, who cares about the environment and are willing to take action.
Asian Americans care for the environment in a number of ways, including advocating for political change. A recent survey in California, a state with one of the largest Asian American populations in the United States, shows that yes, Asian American voters consider themselves environmentalists. This phenomenon is not just a result of their Asian American culture, rather, the result of understanding and accepting scientific research and what is going on around them.
A recent poll by the California League of Conservation Voters Education Fund shows that, while a little more than 50% of Californian voters consider themselves to be environmentalists, an astounding 83% of Asian American voters fall into that category. In this survey, Asian American voters have listed global warming as a top concern. Not only do they realize this, but they’re also willing to do something about it.
Asian Americans make up about 12.5% of California’s population. The population is growing at a quick pace, in fact, the Asian American population is considered the fastest growing major ethnic group in the state. As such, their vote and voice becomes important to state politics, especially when it comes to voting on environmental laws.
85% of Asian American voters said that they would be very likely to vote in favor of protecting the environment. Another 80% suggested that they would be more likely to back a candidate with a strong pro-environment platform. How does this relate to political affiliation? Democrats are more likely to back environmental causes compared to Republicans; for example, take a look at the current Canadian pipeline situation. Asian Americans also believe that the government should play a more active role in protecting the environment, including finding sources for alternative fuel.
The general Asian American population believes in the importance of protecting the environment. Knowing that Asian Americans care about the environment, politicians must be willing to run on a pro-environmental platform, in order to get the Asian American vote. Of course, environmentalism is not the only factor at play, but it sure is an important one. Asian Americans care for the environment by volunteering, but the political impact they make on pro-environmental bills is far greater than planting a few trees here and there.