Climate what? Half of Brits thinks scientists are sceptics

A new survey has uncovered widespread misconceptions about energy and climate with just one in nine (11%) of people aware of the strength of the scientific consensus on man-made climate […]

A new survey has uncovered widespread misconceptions about energy and climate with just one in nine (11%) of people aware of the strength of the scientific consensus on man-made climate change.

That’s according to the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), a new non-profit initiative with an advisory board including MPs, peers and academics.

The ComRes poll found nearly half of Brits (47%) think most climate scientists reject the idea human activities such as fossil fuel burning are the main driver of climate change (11%), or that scientists are evenly split on the issue (35%).

Richard Black, director of the ECIU said: “The breakdown between the views of scientists and the public on climate change is a particular concern. This feels reminiscent of the situation around MMR where most Britons thought the medical profession was split on the safety of the vaccine whereas doctors were virtually unanimous that it was safe.”

With some crucial decisions needed on the UK’s response to climate change and our energy system in the next few years, he said, it is “vital” people are “properly informed”.

Latest Podcast