Climate change

New research by Ipsos shows people around the world are not very likely to make environmentally friendly changes that would have the most impact on cutting carbon emissions. Less than half say they are likely to make changes such as eating fewer dairy products (41%), eating less meat (44%), changing their household heating system to a low carbon system (44%), despite these being some of the most effective ways in cutting carbon emissions.

In a new global survey of 23,577 adults aged 16 – 74 in 31 countries, Ipsos found that climate change is a regular concern for half of people across a global country average. Concern is notably higher in Latin American countries, with Colombia, Chile, Mexico, Argentina and Italy all leading the way as those who think about the effects of climate change on their countries most frequently. Conversely Great Britain ranks in the bottom five countries who don’t think about climate change as much, beaten only by Japan, the Netherlands, Russia and China.

The recent rise in concern about Covid-19 following the spread of Omicron continues in 2022. Meanwhile, inflation hits record levels of concern.

A key player in the energy sector on an international level that has committed to the goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, EDF presents the findings of an opinion study of groundbreaking scope conducted for the 3rd consecutive year by Ipsos in 30 countries  across five continents, covering two-thirds of the world’s population and featuring the biggest CO2 producers. Every year, EDF publishes an international status report on opinions, knowledge, expectations and levels of engagement in relation to climate change, as matter for reflection and to contribute to the constructive search for solutions for the future.

What did we learn about public attitudes and behaviours? What did our research tell us about the events of the year? And how did our outlook shift?