New study shows public pride in climate and nature

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A landmark survey of more than 7,000 people across Britain has revealed that the public takes deep pride in the nation’s environmental efforts and strongly supports action to tackle climate change.

The Britain Talks Climate & Nature report, produced by Climate Outreach and More in Common, shows that people across the political spectrum – including Conservative and Reform voters – are proud of the UK’s work to restore natural places, are comfortable with wind turbines in the countryside, and are overwhelmingly in favour of solar energy.

Key findings include:

  • 74% of people say climate change is important, while only 4% dismiss it.

  • Four in five (81%) say being in nature makes them “very happy”.

  • 89% are comfortable with rooftop solar panels.

  • In Scotland, pride in offshore wind now surpasses pride in North Sea oil and gas.

  • A majority of people want ambitious leadership on climate and nature.

Despite strong public support, the study also finds rising disillusionment with politics and concern about the cost of living, with many people yet to be convinced that net zero will improve their lives.

The findings underline the need for politicians to demonstrate how climate and nature policies deliver tangible benefits for households and communities.

Perhaps this should also provide evidence that the Government’s approach to planning reform – demonising nature as a “blocker” – should be revised. In particular, Government should rethink Part 3 of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill to ensure that development works with nature rather than against it. CIEEM has already published a solutions briefing paper on actions that can be taken to speed up planning and development and at the same time support nature recovery.