Most Americans say climate change affects their local community, including 70% living near coast
Some 63% of Americans say climate change is currently affecting their local community either a great deal or some.
Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World
Some 63% of Americans say climate change is currently affecting their local community either a great deal or some.
44% of Americans have a great deal of confidence in the scientific community, while 47% have only some confidence and 7% have hardly any.
About seven-in-ten in Pacific states say climate change is affecting their local community at least some. That compares with 54% in Mountain states.
Here is a roundup of key takeaways from our studies of U.S. public opinion about science issues and their effect on society.
Solar and wind power use has grown rapidly in the past decade, but as of 2018 those sources accounted for under 4% of all energy used in the U.S.
Majorities in many countries say global climate change is a major threat to their nation. Global concerns about climate change have risen since 2013.
New and emerging occupations are raising the importance of analytical skills, such as science, mathematics and programming.
The public is somewhat more positive about the effects of government funding on research and practitioner recommendations.
Most Americans think sending astronauts to Mars or the moon should be a lower priority for NASA – or say it should not be done at all.
A strong majority of the American public thinks of science as having a positive effect on society, and most expect continued benefits to accrue from science in the years ahead.
1615 L St. NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
USA
(+1) 202-419-4300 | Main
(+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax
(+1) 202-419-4372 | Media Inquiries
ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts.
© 2024 Pew Research Center