RealClimate: Raising Climate Literacy
Climate change has become a widely known topic, similar to evolution, plate tectonics, or artificial intelligence. Many people believe they already know everything necessary about it. This broad awareness reflects the importance of climate change as one of the greatest societal challenges of our time.
A large majority of the global population recognizes the need for climate action. About 69% are willing to contribute 1% of their income toward climate mitigation, and 89% demand that governments and politicians take meaningful action. In the United States, 62% of people feel a personal responsibility to reduce the impacts of climate change.
However, despite this widespread concern, many lack a solid understanding of climate science. This gap leads to misconceptions, difficulty in identifying pseudoscience, and an unwarranted certainty about global warming's realities. Such misunderstandings can obstruct or delay efforts to address climate change effectively.
“Misconceptions get in the way of understanding the science behind the predictions of climate change to the point where mitigation efforts are derailed or stalled.”
Summary: While climate change awareness is high globally, widespread scientific misunderstandings risk undermining effective climate action and mitigation efforts.