Extreme weather events are leaving their mark across the globe, from scorching temperatures in India to severe droughts in Spain, devastating floods in Germany, and intense convective weather in parts of China. A recent global online survey conducted by CGTN has shed light on public sentiment towards the escalating climate crisis.
The survey, which garnered 13,112 responses within just 24 hours, revealed that a staggering 86.28% of participants believe developed countries must bear a greater responsibility in actively addressing global climate change. This sentiment aligns with the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2024, which identified extreme weather as one of the top threats facing the world today.
Further insights from the survey indicate that over 73% of respondents have personally experienced extreme weather events, with 80.13% expressing concern that such events will become more frequent in the future. The impact is tangible, as more than 81% reported adverse effects on key sectors like agriculture, trade, and tourism, leading to significant casualties and economic losses.
\"It is out of control in some parts of the world,\" one respondent commented, echoing the growing frustration over the unchecked climate deterioration. Experts concur, pointing to global climate change as the root cause of these extreme weather patterns. In the survey, 74.48% of respondents agreed that the frequent occurrence of extreme weather reflects a rapid deterioration of the global climate.
Addressing the issue requires collective effort, as over 85% of those surveyed believe that no country can remain indifferent to the challenges of climate change. They advocate for all nations to collaborate in mitigating the effects, with 82.69% emphasizing that tackling climate change is not only an economic necessity but also a moral obligation for major countries.
This comprehensive poll, available in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, underscores the urgent call for sustainable development as the pathway to resolving climate change, as stated by 67.13% of the respondents.
Reference(s):
CGTN Poll: Over 80% urge developed countries respond to climate change
cgtn.com
