New polling: voters see rowing back on climate policy as ‘damaging’, ‘backwards’ and ‘dangerous’

New polling conducted by Opinium for the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) [1] has found that majorities of voters would be proud of voting for a party that boosted renewables (78%) and insulation in homes (72%). Even for policies less in the public eye such as the switch to heat pumps (55%) and supporting farmers to plant trees (55%), the public said they would be proud of voting for a party championing these measures.

This compares to just 29% who said they would be proud of voting for a party supporting large-scale fracking with 48% saying they would be ‘embarrassed’ by this.

When asked how they would perceive a political party downgrading climate change policy from being a priority issue, the top responses were ‘damaging’ (38%), ‘backwards’ (36%), ‘dangerous’ (33%).

Peter Chalkley, Director of the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), said: “The British people are clearly concerned by the risk that a changing climate poses. The memories of 40.3C are fresh and even despite recent rain many parts of the country are still in drought conditions.

“There’s also a strong sense of pride around our renewables industry and making our homes better, warmer and more efficient. The public likely see these as pragmatic, common sense steps to cut bills and protect us from volatile gas prices.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Poll conducted by Opinium 28th - 30th of September 2022. Sample 2,000 GB Adults.

For more information:

George Smeeton, Head of Communications, ECIU, Tel: 07894 571 153, email: george.smeeton@eciu.net