54% of adults are worried about climate change

Over half of UK adults are concerned about the impact of climate change on their local community, according to the National Lottery Community Fund. 

The survey of over 8,000 people across the UK shows that the reality of what could come from climate change is hitting home. 

While almost nine in ten (88%) say the UK Government is responsible for tackling climate change, there is also a very high recognition for the role of individuals and communities.

Over eight in ten (82%) say individuals have a responsibility, while 79% say the same of local communities.

The findings also suggest that people want to take personal responsibility for mitigating the impact on their community – more than half (55%) say they are either currently taking part in community-led action or they plan to or are willing to consider doing so in the future. 

Seven in ten (71%) say they are recycling more, while around half (52%) use energy-efficient appliances and lighting at home or have insulated their homes (51%).

More than four in ten (44%) say the Covid-19 pandemic has made the importance of addressing climate change personally more important to them.

Nick Gardner, head of climate action at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: ‘This research shows that people are becoming increasingly aware that climate change will impact them and their community. But there is also recognition that individuals and communities have a vital role to play, alongside the response of Government and business.

‘As the UK’s largest funder of community activity, we’re delighted to support this effort with National Lottery funding. The community-led climate action projects we’ve supported show us that there are some great innovations taking place that are bringing people and communities together in a very positive way. It’s clear that there are many ways people and communities across the UK can take climate action so I would urge people who care about this issue or are concerned about the impact of climate change on their community to get involved.’