A poll conducted in late November asked Canadians about their feelings towards the government’s actions on climate change, and a strong majority of people from every region are embarrassed about Canada’s inaction on climate change. In emissions-intense Alberta, fully 65 per cent of respondents agreed with the statement “it’s embarrassing we’re not doing more to curb emissions,” and that number reached a staggering 86 per cent in Quebec.
The poll probed further as to where climate change ranked in relation to other issues. Interestingly, the polling firm divided the responses between average Canadians, and “thought leaders,” or elite decision makers who are top members of business, universities, government and the media. They found an interesting split: while average Canadians ranked the environment as the third most important issue (12%) behind the economy (39%) and health care (22%), the elites ranked the environment as most pressing issue (32%), followed by the economy (23%) and health care (10%).
The polling firm went on to say that historically, elite opinion has been a leading indicator for the opinions that eventually filter down to the general public. So this result suggests that the environment will likely emerge as a more important issue for average Canadians as time goes on.
This reflects a major opportunity for businesses and governments. Acting early means that companies and political parties will be fluent with environmental issues and will have mature actions to legitimize their claims when the tide of public opinion makes it a deal-breaking issue. Having a solid history of environmental action will be the key differentiator between the responsible and respected entities and those chasing the hybrid bandwagon. Forward-thinking businesses recognize that environmental responsibility dovetails with cost savings and efficiencies, and mitigates risks for forthcoming climate legislation. Couple those benefits with landing on the right side of emerging public opinion, and the choice is clear.
By Jeff Beyer .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
