Action in the UK - Public attitudes to climate change
What do people think about climate change?
The most up-to-date research shows that awareness of climate change is increasing across the UK. Research also shows that concern about the impact of climate change is also growing.
Defra carries out regular surveys into attitudes to climate change. Key findings from the latest adults research include:
- Awareness of climate change and global warming remains extremely high (98%).
- The number of people who think they are taking action to tackle climate change continues to rise (73%).
- 90% of respondents felt the world’s climate is changing.
- 8 out of 10 took personal responsibility for contributing to road transport emissions and carbon dioxide emissions.
Defra has also carried out surveys into youth attitudes to climate change. Key findings from the latest youth research include:
- six in ten are worried about climate change
- 78% think climate change is due to human behaviour
- a third felt that the UK was already affected by climate change
- 76% felt that their home could use less energy
Attitudes to climate change - Youth (Eng)
LVQ, a specialist youth research agency interviewed a random sample of 749 youngsters in England, aged 11-17. Fieldwork was carried out from May 24-30, 2006.
- Read the research (PDF 150 KB) (06/2006)
LVQ recently carried out a follow-up survey in April 2008. A random sample of 711 youngsters in England, aged 11-17, were interviewed.
- Read the research (PDF 170 KB) (07/2008)
Public Attitudes to Climate Change
Public Attitudes to Climate Change 3 - Regional results (March 2006)
Additional research
Page last modified: 17 July 2008
Page published: 20 March 2008