WWF releases polling data ahead of Scottish Government's climate change bill

Growing numbers of people want the Scottish Government to take stronger action on climate change, according to campaigners.

A survey for WWF Scotland found 76% of Scots were in favour of more investment in improving the energy efficiency of homes, up from 67% in 2016.

Almost as many (72%) think the government should be doing more to help people heat their homes from renewable sources, and 71% said our electricity should be generated from renewable resources – up from 61% last year.

The poll also found 68% of Scots want the Scottish Government to invest in projects that reduce emissions, such as public transport and low carbon heat networks.

These survey results should give politicians of all parties the confidence to be ambitious

WWF Scotland released the data as it continues to call for the Scottish Government to introduce strong policies in the forthcoming climate change bill to help cut climate emissions.

Sarah Beattie-Smith, the charity’s climate and energy policy officer, said: “It’s fantastic to see ever-growing support from the public for greater Scottish Government investment to reduce climate emissions. These survey results clearly show the need for strong climate action is an established priority for the people of Scotland.

“The forthcoming climate bill is a welcome opportunity to continue Scotland’s climate leadership and demonstrate the creative, imaginative, bold and radical policies that the First Minister has said will be set out in the next programme for government.

“We believe the forthcoming climate change bill can help to create jobs, improve public health and reduce poverty at home, whilst also ensuring Scotland plays its part in helping the poorest people in the world cope with the effects of climate change.

“These survey results should give politicians of all parties the confidence to be ambitious and take the steps needed to make Scotland a fairer, more prosperous society."