Why all the scepticism?
Letter published by The Scotsman, 2nd April 2008
Is The Scotsman's readership a particularly eco-sceptic one? Of the 70 web responses to your report 'Bringing home the truth on output' (31 March) posted by 4pm on Monday, more than half used the article to air their climate-scepticism or grievances about the environmental movement in general. The usual arguments - ie, unproven science, localised warming episodes, scientists out to make a quick buck - were cited.
It would be interesting to learn where readers of The Scotsman fit in the spectrum of attitudes, understanding and behaviour on climate change and carbon saving. Perhaps a survey is called for.
A recent Energy Saving Trust survey put Scotland's population as 36 per cent 'environmentally indifferent' and 6 per cent 'educated advocates' (those likely to espouse environmental values). Compare that to London - less than 3 per cent 'environmentally indifferent' and 38 per cent 'educated advocates'. There is a huge education gap to be addressed here and a canvassing job to be undertaken by the green lobby.
Charles Henderson of Climate Futures