Relations between economic wealth, ecological footprint, and environmental protection depend on climatic demands

It is an incomplete story that richer societies have larger ecological footprints and are more inclined toward environmental protection. Our 116-nation study shows that all countries, but especially richer countries, have larger ecological footprints under more demanding thermal climates. Further, business executives’ ratings of the prevalence of environmental regulations and practices in their country are lowest in poor countries with demanding thermal climates (Armenia, Mongolia), moderate in poor and rich countries with undemanding climates (Mauritius, Nigeria), and highest in rich countries with demanding thermal climates (Canada, Finland). The same holds for efforts to respond to ‘green’ consumer demands. Explanations are sought in livability appraisals and behavioural adaptations to climato-economic environments. Some speculation is offered about the future management of national ecosystems. © 2015 Taylor & Francis.