SustainabilityBlog.org

From Mark @ TalkClimateChange

How ready is the world for sustainability? Is sustainability something that the average person really cares about?

We think it is. In recent years the topic of climate change has come sharply into public focus, and it is hard to escape the intensive coverage that the subject is receiving in the popular media.

New research published today shows that not only is sustainable living very much on the mind of the public, but the majority of people are also prepared to do something about it.

As we reported on TalkClimateChange today: http://www.talkclimatechange.com/index.html#NewsRef260

The BBC announced results of a poll today which claims that of 22,000 people surveyed in 21 countries, the majority of people are ready to make sacrifices to address global warming and climate change.
Four out of five people indicated they were prepared to change their lifestyle, particularly if additional fuel taxes were used for research into clean energy sources. The poll reveals that the Chinese, whose dramatic industrial growth is often used an excuse for inaction in the Western world are the most willing to accept additional energy taxes, with 85% of those surveyed in favour.
The report’s conclusion will be of interest to world governments as it notes that in many countries individuals are more willing than governments themselves to accept serious lifestyle changes in the fight against climate change.

What’s now missing is a feasible and achievable action plan to make sustainable living a reality. Clearly the general public are up for the challenge, but governments must go some way towards helping people to make smart choices.

Until now many government “green schemes” have either been simple political stunts, or disguised forms of additional taxation. Concrete schemes which incentivise sustainable options whilst channelling more money into much needed research are badly needed.

We hope that governments around the world take note of these results such that we can all look forwards to a greener and more sustainable future.