Brussels, 20/06/2011 (Agence Europe) - Despite the economic and financial crisis, more than 90% of citizens in every EU member state say that the environment is an important personal concern, according to a Eurobarometer survey, the findings of which were published on Monday 20 June. The survey was conducted between April and May 2011 in face-to-face interviews with a representative sample of 1,000 people in each member state. “This is the first time that such a survey has been carried out for four years. The findings are quite reassuring”, said Environment Commissioner Janez Potoènik, delighted that “Europeans are more interested in the environment today”.
The overwhelming majority of those surveyed say that efficient use of natural resources (83%) and protection of the environment (77%, compared with 66% in 2007) are key to economic growth. When asked about their top five environmental concerns, 41% think of water pollution, 33% of depletion of natural resources (up from 26% in 2007), 33% of the growth of waste (up from 24%), and 19% of consumption (up from 11%). But only 22% think of the loss of species and habitats. (A.N./transl.rt)