June 27, 2004

Abstract: (CPOD) Jun. 27, 2004 - Americans have differing views on how to deal with global warming, according to a poll by Knowledge Networks released by the Program on International Policy Attitudes. 45 per cent of respondents believe the problem should be addressed gradually and at a low cost, while 31 per cent say the issue is serious and demands immediate steps, even if they are expensive.

(CPOD) Jun. 27, 2004 - Americans have differing views on how to deal with global warming, according to a poll by Knowledge Networks released by the Program on International Policy Attitudes. 45 per cent of respondents believe the problem should be addressed gradually and at a low cost, while 31 per cent say the issue is serious and demands immediate steps, even if they are expensive.

The term global warming refers to an increase of the Earth's average temperature. Some theories say that the planet might become overheated due to heat trapped by carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. 23 per cent of respondents believe more research should be done before any specific steps are taken.

In 1998, several countries agreed to the Kyoto Protocol, a proposed amendment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The agreement commits nations to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

The United States signed the protocol but has not ratified it. 64 per cent of respondents say they would you want their Congressional representatives to vote for the U.S. to participate in the Kyoto agreement.

Polling Data

There is a controversy over what the countries of the world, including the U.S., should do about the problem of global warming. I'm going to read you three statements. Please tell me which statement comes closest to your own point of view.

a. Until we are sure that global warming, is really a problem we should not take any steps that would have economic costs	23%
b. The problem of global warming should be addressed, but its effects will be gradual, so we can deal with the problem gradually by taking steps that are low in cost	45%
c. Global warming is a serious and pressing problem. We should begin taking steps now even if this involves significant costs	31%

Based on what you know, would you want your Congressional representative to vote for or against the U.S. participating in the Kyoto agreement to reduce global warming?

Vote for U.S. participation	64%
Vote against U.S. participation	20%

Source: Knowledge Networks / Program on International Policy Attitudes
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 753 American adults, conducted from Jun. 8 to Jun. 14, 2004. Margin of error is 3.6 per cent.