Brussels, 08/09/2014 (Agence Europe) - Despite the economic crisis, 95% of EU citizens recently surveyed say that protecting the environment is important, according to a new Eurobarometer poll, the results of which were published by the European Commission on Monday 8 September. A large majority (77%) say that European environmental legislation is necessary to protect the environment in their country. Six out of ten think that environmental decisions should be taken jointly within the EU and 56 % want the EU to do even more to protect the environment.
“People are particularly concerned about air and water pollution, chemicals and waste, and they feel that more must be done by everyone to protect the environment”, said Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik.
The survey was carried out on behalf of the Commission's Directorate General for Environment between 26 April and 11 May in the 28 member states. A representative sample of some 1,000 citizens from each country was interviewed face-to-face to assess their perceptions, attitudes and practices towards the environment. The last survey of this kind dates from 2011 (see EUROPE 10401). A wide majority of respondents believe that the efficient use of natural resources (79%) and the protection of the environment (74%) can boost economic growth. While 80% consider that the economy influences their quality of life, 75% think the state of the environment has a similar impact. 77% of EU citizens believe that environmental problems have a direct effect on their daily lives.
What they are most concerned about is pollution - with air (56%) and water pollution (50%) ranking highest - as well as waste generation and the depletion of natural resources. While more citizens feel well informed about the environment in general, 39% feel they lack information about the health impact of chemicals used in everyday products.
85% of those surveyed believe they have a role to play in protecting the environment. Most have already adopted environmentally-friendly behaviour, such as separation of waste for recycling (72%), cutting down energy consumption (52%) and cutting down water consumption (37%). 75% say they are ready to buy environmentally-friendly products, even if it means paying a little more. 93% think that big polluters should make good the environmental damage they cause. Introducing heavier fines for offenders was deemed the most effective way of tackling environmental problems.
77% of feel that big companies and industry are not doing enough; 70% think the same of their national government. 65% believe that citizens themselves could do more. (AN)