Research - Climate Change

What is Climate Change?

- Climate change is a change in the statistical distribution of weather patterns when that change lasts for an extended period of time.

- Climate change affects all regions around the world

- Polar ice shields are melting and the sea is rising due to the increase in the global temperature

- In some regions extreme weather events and rainfall are becoming more common while others are experiencing more extreme heat waves and droughts

- These impacts are expected to intensify in the coming decades however there are ways to slow down the effect

- Due to the rate of which the changes are being made, all wildlife is struggling to adapt

- WWF believes that 'We have the knowledge and the technology to reduce our impact on the climate, and ease the pressures on the world's most vulnerable places, people and wildlife. We just need to make it happen.'

Primary Research:

To gain an understanding of what the UK population's knowledge is of the topic of climate change, a number of discussion were had with a range of individuals living in the North East of the UK. Through speaking to a number of different individuals from ages 18 - 80, it is clear that our understanding and knowledge of climate change differs, depending on educational level and age. 

Those who have recently been through education are more aware of the changes that are occurring and why this is happening. This is mainly due to their educational studies. Those who studied geography have an even further knowledge base due to it being a popular subject of choice for exam boards.  

Speaking to individuals who are slightly older (40+) it is evident that their knowledge is mainly informed by what is broadcast on the news as well as being taught by younger family members. 
One common form of information on climate change is documentaries that are broadcast on the television such as, Planet Earth - BBC Natural History Unit. This was a series mentioned by a number of individuals who also said that the strong imagery helped them understand and engage with the information. Many individuals also expressed their interest in wanting to know more of what they can do to help reduce the increasing levels of climate change. As this is a topic that was discussed with a number of individuals, it became evident that there is a lack of information out there for the general public to access in day to day life. It was suggested that on a number of occasions that subtle adjustment to packaging would inform individuals further on what they can and can't recycle. It was also said that the council needs to be more active in releasing information of what materials they recycle as this is different in each region.