For a large majority of Austrians, climate change is a proven fact. Of the 18,153 people surveyed by the Federal Environmental Service on behalf of the Climate and Energy Fund from March to May 2023 about the regional impacts of climate change, 93.6 percent are aware of climate change. 72.5 percent associate this with predominantly negative consequences for people and nature, 82.4 percent think countermeasures are somewhat or absolutely necessary.
The local population of 80 climate adaptation model regions and commuters aged 16 and older were surveyed. 48.4 percent see measures to adapt to climate change as absolutely necessary, another 34 percent as somewhat necessary.
Worry about quality of life
According to those surveyed, droughts and heat waves in particular are much more common today than in the past. In general, an increase in heavy precipitation, flooding, thunderstorms, hail, mudslides and landslides is recorded.
Significantly more than half of those questioned fear that the changing climatic conditions will have only or more negative effects on flora and fauna, water supply, the quality of life of the population and winter tourism. The majority also believe in an increase in natural disasters due to climate change.
Most are taking action to combat climate change
82 percent of those surveyed therefore believe it is important to respond to the impacts of climate change. Two-thirds of those surveyed have already responded to climate change in their private lives and say they have taken measures to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
“The results show that there is still a need for targeted knowledge transfer, especially about regional climate impacts and necessary measures. Respondents would like to obtain information on these topics, in particular from neighborhood newspapers, neighborhood websites, neighborhood apps or regional media,” emphasizes the Climate and Energy Fund. And he admits that the survey results were “surprising” because, despite several crises such as the corona pandemic, inflation and the energy crisis, climate change is still seen as proven compared to the last survey in 2020 and perceived as overwhelmingly negative .
“We must not lose heart”
“Communities on rivers and lakes are afraid of flooding, agriculture is suffering crop failures due to drought and the population is suffering from record heat or severe storms,” said Environment and Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) in light of the research results. in one of the statements filed by the APA. The consequences of the climate crisis are already being felt by everyone and are posing major challenges for society. “But we must not lose heart. The fight against the climate crisis brings enormous opportunities. More quality of life, more food security, living nature and good air to breathe.”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
