14 Jun 2010 02:06:58

Climate change decision makers 'should listen to public opinion'

Decision makers who have a role in defining climate change policy should understand what members of the public are thinking about the subject, the co-author of a new study has suggested.

Research by Cardiff University released recently shows that a clear majority of Brits are aware that climate change is occurring and are concerned about the issue.

However, the number of respondents which believed action must be taken was lower than when the survey was last conducted in 2005.

More members of the public were supportive of nuclear power than five years ago, however the majority were in favour of other renewable sources.

Professor Nick Pidgeon, professor of Applied Psychology at Cardiff University and lead author, said that many decision makers will find the research useful, including those within the industry and green consultancies.

"Understanding how people are responding to these issues is actually quite important for developing a conversation between people who want to develop renewable energy, the local government and communities," the expert explained.

He added that "part of this research is about trying to connect people in a discussion".