The United Kingdom, home to more than 69 million people, ranks among the world’s leading economies and plays a significant role in international climate negotiations. In 2019, the UK became the first major economy to pass a law requiring net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, the UK’s carbon footprint remains substantial, particularly due to its historical contributions to global emissions and the complexity of its current energy system. The country has made considerable progress in reducing its emissions, and recently closed its last coal-fired power plant. However, the UK’s ongoing reliance on fossil fuels for transportation and heating poses continued challenges to achieving its net-zero climate goals.
The UK is also increasingly feeling the impacts of climate change. More intense and prolonged rainfall, heightened risks of flooding, increasing temperatures, and more frequent and intense heat waves are affecting communities across the country. The UK’s coastal regions are vulnerable to sea level rise, and urban areas face mounting threats from extreme weather. These changes are already disrupting local economies, public health, and infrastructure. As the British government continues to implement policies aimed at achieving net-zero emissions, public opinion will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s climate strategy.
This report, “Climate Change in the British Mind,” presents findings from a nationally representative survey conducted in November 2024, with a specific focus on the British public’s awareness of climate change, their perceptions of its risks and impacts, and their experiences with extreme weather. The report also investigates public attitudes toward climate policies and renewable energy. These insights into public beliefs, attitudes, and policy preferences can help inform communication and education strategies designed to foster greater support for the country’s transition to a low-carbon future.
References
IEA (2024). United Kingdom 2024. Paris: International Energy Agency. https://www.iea.org/reports/united-kingdom-2024
Met Office. (n.d.). Climate change in the UK. Met Office. https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/climate-change/climate-change-in-the-uk
UK Parliament. (2019, June 26). The Climate Change Act 2008 (2050 Target Amendment) Order 2019. Legislation.gov.uk. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2019/1056/introduction/made