(03 March 2014) – Four out of five people in the European Union recognise that fighting climate change and using energy more efficiently can boost the economy and employment, according to a special Eurobarometer opinion poll on climate change published today.
Several member states which suffered most in the economic and financial crisis are among the countries where recognition of the economic benefits of climate action and energy efficiency is highest. In no Member State did fewer than 65% of respondents agree.
The survey also found that seven in ten citizens agree that reducing fossil fuel imports from outside the EU could bring economic benefits.
Key results of the survey are as follows:
- 80% of respondents agree that fighting climate change and using energy more efficiently can boost the economy and jobs.
- Nine in ten Europeans consider climate change a serious problem.
- Climate change is considered a very serious problem facing the world after poverty and the economic situation.
- 70% of Europeans agree that reducing fossil fuel imports could benefit the EU economically.
- The vast majority of Europeans support national action on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
- 50% of Europeans say they have taken some kind of action to fight climate change in the past six months, slightly down from 53% in 2011.