The majority agree that climate change is a huge problem which is likely to only get worse. However, this is where most people's attention to the issue ends. Those in a democratic state vote for their representative in government and expect them to take action on these sorts of issues. But does anyone check up on this? Do people pay attention to government action against climate change? If not, why not?
In 2010, 48% of the population believed information presented on global warming was overestimated. Fast forward to 2019, 22% still believe the information is overestimated, however a majority of 42% now believe it is underestimated. This development suggests people are either becoming more educated or more paranoid. The increase in the quantity of natural disasters seems to have had an impact on people's beliefs towards global warming and climate change.
On the other hand, it has been suggested that your opinion on the severity of climate change directly correlates with your political view. If you don’t believe climate change should be at the top of the list of global problems then you must believe something else is? This complicates things as politics relies on agreement to ensure efficient decision making.
Furthermore, climate change is not a simple problem with a specific solution. The causes of global warming are varied, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. All these areas require different responses. The more action needed the longer it takes for governments to execute.
However, there is hope. Several political parties are highlighting climate change as their top priority. At Eco Giant, we by no means are encouraging you to vote for a specific party. Yet, we do ask one thing of you - vote. Educate yourself and have your say in your country's politics, the very existence of our planet depends on it.
Comments