Public Mobilization for Ecological Policies Clashes with Political Actions in France

On July 27, 2025, Laure Verhaeghe, president of Lendosphere, highlighted a significant disconnect in France between widespread public support for ecological initiatives and recent political actions that seem to contradict this sentiment. In her opinion piece, Verhaeghe outlines how strong citizen mobilization is facing challenges from policies such as the reintroduction of controversial neonicotinoid pesticides and a failed moratorium on renewable energy initiatives.

Verhaeghe points out that 2024 marked a critical juncture, illustrating alarming climate conditions with a global temperature rise exceeding 1.5°C, accompanied by substantial economic losses due to climate-related disasters, which cost approximately 310 billion euros worldwide, including 5 billion euros within France. This sobering reality coincides with resilient public support, as surveys show that 83% of respondents endorse a reduction in pesticide use, despite the controversial adoption of the Loi Duplomb, which facilitates the reintroduction of these harmful chemicals.

The public's willingness to take a stand is evidenced by a petition against the Loi Duplomb that has garnered over 1.8 million signatures in just ten days—a clear indication of citizen opposition to regressive ecological policies. Moreover, a robust 84% of French citizens support the expansion of renewable energy, manifesting an urgent demand for ecological reforms that current legislation is failing to meet.

In response to governmental inaction, citizens have taken proactive measures: crowdfunding campaigns supporting ecological projects, such as the Shift Project's 'Décarbonons la France,' have successfully raised over 4.6 million euros from more than 36,000 contributors. This financial backing demonstrates a strong public will to engage in sustainable development and ecological reforms, challenging any labels that might dismiss such activism as eco-terrorism.

In conclusion, Verhaeghe urges recognition of the gap between public sentiment and political action, emphasizing that citizens are using democratic tools and financial resources to advocate for an urgent ecological transition amidst rising climate challenges and political setbacks.