Impact of climate change a major concern

RESEARCH shows six out of 10 Irish people are worried about the effects of climate change and its impact on future generations.

More storms, floods and warmer summers are the most likely effects, most people believe. By 2050 the impact of climate change on this country will be sizeable, experts say.

But 80% believe our weather is already changing, according to a survey by Sustainable Energy Ireland.

However the majority of people surveyed by SEI believe their actions do not affect climate change.

The research results were released to mark the start of Energy Awareness Week 2005, during which various initiatives will take place across the country.

Although 52% are aware of the dangers of climate change, they said they find it hard to be more energy efficient.

Some 59% cited the greenhouse effect as the main cause of climate change, with 32% believing excess energy usage led to the problem.

"We were really encouraged to find so many of those surveyed are aware of the problem of climate change and understand that their actions affect it," SEI head of customer services Tom Halpin said.

"Over 50% of those surveyed, however, find it hard to be energy efficient. We hope that our campaign will highlight to people that there are simple actions we can all take to be more energy efficient and help to combat climate change."

The unpredictable weather was the worst thing about the Irish climate, those surveyed said. Summer was the favourite season for 48%, while 42% said their favoured winter past-time was sitting at home in front of an open log fire.

Irish celebrities are supporting the campaign to make consumers more energy efficient.

TV presenter Linda Martin leads by example: "I'm very concerned with saving energy, so much so that my car runs on diesel, the light bulbs in my house are all energy saving and something which I believe is very important I never, ever leave my TV on standby."

*For more information contact: www.combatclimatechange.ie