One in five not interested in climate change

Findings published yesterday (January 10) to mark the launch of the Climate Week Awards, prompted sociologist and environmental campaigner Lord Anthony Giddens to speak out.

The research also points to a worrying 15% of the population unwilling to change their behaviour based on the facts of climate change alone.

One in 10 climate cynics agree that they’d do more if their friends or neighbours demonstrated a bigger commitment to saving the planet, they would do more themselves.

The research also found that seeing friends, family and celebrities is ‘critical’ in encouraging action to save the planet.

The research shows those people closest to us are most likely to inspire us to take action to save the planet – if only because they nag us!

Professor Giddens, said: “The more we see other people being eco friendly – whether it’s the celebrities we follow or our friends and neighbours, the more likely we are to join in. Human beings are pack animals and we don’t like to be the odd one out.

“We’re also susceptible to pester power from our nearest and dearest, which means we all have the ability to inspire action from others.

“Climate change is the biggest threat the world has ever faced and we need to all use our influence to persuade our friends and family to take action.”

According to the research partners have the greatest influence over the decisions we make (58%) – more than 25 times greater than neighbours at 2%.

To enter the awards or to vote for your Climate Week hero click here.

Luke Walsh