American Opinions on Global Warming

Abstract

Anthony Leiserowitz and the University of Oregon Survey Research Laboratory (OSRL) conducted a national survey entitled “American Opinions on Global Warming” between November 2002 and February 2003 (n=673).This research found that of those Americans who have heard of global warming (92%):• Over 90% think the United States should reduce its greenhouse emissions.• A strong majority (77%) support government regulation of carbon dioxide as a pollutant and investment in renewable energy (71%).• A strong majority (88%) support the Kyoto Protocol and (76%) want the United States to reduce greenhouse emissions regardless of what other countries do.• While a majority favor a tax on gas guzzlers (54%), strong majorities oppose a gasoline tax (78%) or a business energy tax (60%) to reduce greenhouse emissions.• They divide evenly (40%) regarding a market-based emissions trading system, while 18% are uncertain.• Democrats and Liberals express stronger support for climate change policies than Republicans and Conservatives.• Independents and Moderates show levels of support more similar to Democrats and Liberals than to Republicans and Conservatives.• Nonetheless, majorities of Republicans and Conservatives support most climate change policies.