(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in the United States claim they will do their part to fight climate change, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. 70 per cent of respondents say they would definitely or probably be willing to pay a higher price for a new house or condo that would reduce energy use and could reduce their monthly heating and cooling bills.

The term global warming refers to an increase of the Earth's average temperature. Some theories say that climate change might be the result of human-generated carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. 61 per cent of respondents are very or somewhat concerned about global warming.

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 U.S. signed the protocol but has not ratified it.

Earlier this month, the White House issued a report which discussed road pricing. The document read: "If a roadway is priced—that is, if drivers have to pay a fee to access a particular road—then congestion can be avoided by adjusting the price up or down at different times of day to reflect changes in demand for its use. Road space is allocated to drivers who most highly value a reliable and unimpaired commute." 66 per cent of respondents oppose U.S. cities imposing a congestion tax, such as the one currently in place in London, England.

Polling Data

Would you be willing to pay a higher price for a new house or condo that would reduce energy use and could reduce your monthly heating and cooling bills?

How concerned are you with the long-term effects of global warming or global climate change?

Some cities, such as London, currently use a congestion tax to help reduce traffic congestion. All drivers that travel within the boundaries pay a daily charge to enter the zone. Would you support or oppose U.S. cities imposing such a tax?

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