Nearly a third of the world's population would be willing to give up air travel to combat climate change

Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay

Nearly a third of the world's population would be willing to fly less, even after restrictions imposed in the context of the pandemic are lifted, according to a survey published by the European Investment Bank (EIB), which shows a growing belief more widespread that individual actions have an impact on the climate.

The survey, conducted among more than 30.000 people, shows that 72% of Europeans and Americans and 84% of Chinese believe that their own behavior can contribute to counteracting climate change, increasing by seven to 12% compared to the situation. last year.

Nowadays, people believe that giving up air travel would be one of the easiest things they could use to reduce their carbon footprint.

Instead, respondents are much more reluctant to sell video streaming, buy new clothes or eat meat.

When restrictions on Covid-19 are lifted, 43% of Europeans, 40% of Americans and 65% of Chinese say they will try to avoid flying, according to a survey conducted in October. Many of them mentioned climate change as the main reason.

Instead, the survey found that people are much less willing to give up owning a car, which could have a greater impact on the climate. Aviation is responsible for only 2,5% of global CO2 emissions, and road transport is responsible for almost 15%.

On a list of actions to combat climate change, 39% of Europeans and 38% of Americans said that giving up owning a car would be the hardest for them. This highlights the need for carmakers to switch to electric or hydrogen vehicles in order to reduce the impact of cars on the environment.

Alternative transportation has increased, 89% of Chinese respondents, 72% of Europeans and 69% of Americans say they use bicycles or walk more.