Uncovering The Relationship Between Redistribution Preferences and Environmentally Related Taxation

The possible negative effects of environmentally related taxation on lower income households makes environmentally related taxation a double-edged sword that on the one hand reduces negative environmental externalities, yet on the other hand can very easily increase inequality if not implemented and designed correctly. More egalitarian individuals who favour equality for all are generally more in favour of environmentally related policies, as opposed to individuals holding more individualistic worldviews who do not want their individual freedoms impeded upon. Will more egalitarian individuals also be more in favour of environmentally related taxation as compared to general environmental policies? The results show that more egalitarian individuals are less supportive of environmentally related taxation, while higher environmental attitudes and higher trust in government make individuals more supportive of environmentally related taxation. This shows how important the design of...Show moreThe possible negative effects of environmentally related taxation on lower income households makes environmentally related taxation a double-edged sword that on the one hand reduces negative environmental externalities, yet on the other hand can very easily increase inequality if not implemented and designed correctly. More egalitarian individuals who favour equality for all are generally more in favour of environmentally related policies, as opposed to individuals holding more individualistic worldviews who do not want their individual freedoms impeded upon. Will more egalitarian individuals also be more in favour of environmentally related taxation as compared to general environmental policies? The results show that more egalitarian individuals are less supportive of environmentally related taxation, while higher environmental attitudes and higher trust in government make individuals more supportive of environmentally related taxation. This shows how important the design of policies is in gathering support. The earmarking of future revenues, clear communication, and transparency can contribute to gather this support for environmentally related taxation.Show less

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Uncovering The Relationship Between Redistribution Preferences and Environmentally Related Taxation