Economy beats climate change

Published: October 02, 2008 - 09:19 PM

Australians more worried by jobs than climate

By Amanda Edmonds

Fear about the future health of the economy and job security has overtaken climate change as the major foreign policy concerns for Australians, according to a new survey reported by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Job protection was found to be very important to 79 per cent of respondents, increasing from 75% just two years ago. Economic growth was also very important, rising from 60 to 70 per cent. In 2006, climate change topped the list as the number one priority, with 75 per cent listing it as very important. This year however, it ranked fifth with only 66 per cent.

The poll by the Lowy Institute found that 51 per cent were not confident in the Rudd Government's ability to respond to the threat of climate change, and those favouring immediate action to deal with the effects of global warming has also dropped, from 68 per cent two years ago to 60 per cent.

"Concern over economic issues has risen at the expense of the environment," said Lowy Institute's executive director, Allan Gyngell. However when asked about concerns over the next decade, the top issues were the increasing scarcity of water, global warming and terrorism.

The survey of 1001 people, administered in July, also found that 21 per cent were not prepared to pay extra for green electricity as an attempt to tackle climate change. However, 32 per cent said they would pay up to $10 extra each month, while 20 per cent said between $11-$20 per month and just 19 per cent said over $21 extra.

The survey highlights the perception that green energy, while a good way to reduce the progression of global warming, is expensive. But this is not always the case. At ShopAround.com.au, by comparing electricity and gas companies and prices, can help find the cheapest green energy alternative. This service allows families to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions without impacting significantly on their budget. ShopAround.com.au assists in striking a balance between the need to “be green” and financial pressures.

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