Public Attitudes to Net Zero Emissions in the UK

Summary

The ongoing challenge of climate change has moved to the forefront of public consciousness because of the efforts of Greta Thunberg, Sir David Attenborough and Extinction Rebellion. In 2019 the UK became the first major economy in the world to commit to bringing all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.

Copper Consulting asked the public what their views are on the viability of this target and what we need to do to reach net zero by 2050. The research asked questions about:

• the public’s support and confidence in achieving net zero by 2050
• what sectors they would prioritise for low carbon investment
• their willingness to pay for the changes that are required
• the lifestyle changes that they are personally willing to make