Conservative Voters Continue Strong Support for Conservation

In a state-wide poll, Republican primary voters express significant support for conservation and resilience efforts across South Carolina.

A new state-wide poll of 1,200 GOP voters conducted by Sustain SC and The Nature Conservancy reveals continued support for conservation and resilience initiatives and funding.

The study underscores Republican voters’ commitment to protecting the state’s natural resources while advancing economic growth.

A white bird takes flight in Low Country marsh.

These overall findings reinforce that conservation is a shared priority among South Carolinians.

Conservation and resilience initiatives are not just about protecting natural resources—they are essential for economic growth. Sustain SC remains committed to working at this intersection to benefit South Carolina’s businesses, communities and future generations.

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“For the second time in three years, Sustain SC has tested conservation and resilience issues statewide and found strong and enduring support to protect our state’s natural resources and improve resilience. This data reinforces the importance of our mission—working at the intersection of environmental conservation and economic development to benefit our state’s economy and natural resources.”

— LESLIE SKARDON, SUSTAIN SC CEO
“Polls consistently show that South Carolinians recognize the value of caring for our lands and waters, and they want local government and organizations to take an active role in stewarding them. We’re proud to work with Sustain SC and other partners to protect our natural resources while also fostering a strong and competitive state economy.”

— DALE THREATT-TAYLOR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE NATURE CONSERVANCY IN SC

South Carolinians Overwhelmingly Support
Sustainability Efforts

83.2%

Respondents agree South Carolinians need to work together to conserve land and water.

81.4%

Respondents support land conservation.

81.9%

Respondents believe water use management should be balanced between economic and recreational needs.

72.9%

Respondents support using state dollars to secure federal and private sector funds for conservation work.

72.9%

Respondents agree it is important to invest in renewable energy.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

72.9% of respondents support South Carolina adding and using more renewable energy resources such as new nuclear, hydrogen, biomass, solar and wind.

ISSUES OF CONCERN

90% of respondents support state legislative funding to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS

59.3% of respondents believe state government should hold primary responsibility for enforcing regulations that protect wetlands and sensitive areas.

CLEAN ENERGY

52.1% of respondents agree on the need to invest in both traditional and renewable sources of energy.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY: The 2025 SC GOP Primary Survey was conducted by Online (Text-to-Web) Interviews from January 28 - February 2 among a random sample of 1200 likely Republican primary election voters. The survey has a margin of error of +/-3 percentage points. Results are weighted. Some percentages in crosstab reports for this poll may not add to 100% due to rounding.