Extreme weather events are increasingly becoming the new normal across the globe, with high temperatures scorching India, severe drought gripping Spain, devastating floods inundating Germany, and strong convective storms battering various parts of China. As the world grapples with the growing impacts of climate change, a recent global online survey by CGTN reveals that 86.28 percent of respondents are calling on developed countries to bear greater responsibility and actively respond to this pressing challenge.
The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 underscores extreme weather as one of the greatest threats facing humanity. Reflecting this concern, over 73 percent of participants in the CGTN survey reported having personally experienced extreme weather events. An even larger majority, 80.13 percent, expressed worry that such events will become more frequent in the near future.
The repercussions of extreme weather extend beyond immediate safety concerns, significantly impacting vital sectors of the global economy. More than 81 percent of respondents indicated that agriculture, trade, and tourism have suffered adverse effects, leading to heavy casualties and substantial economic losses worldwide. “The climate is out of control in some parts of the world,” one participant remarked, echoing a sentiment shared by many.
Experts point to global climate change as the root cause driving the surge in extreme weather incidents. In alignment with this perspective, 74.48 percent of those surveyed agreed that the frequent occurrence of extreme weather reflects the rapid deterioration of the global climate. Furthermore, 67.13 percent believe that climate change has arisen during the course of human development and can only be mitigated through sustainable practices.
The survey results highlight a strong consensus on the necessity for collective action. Over 85 percent of respondents affirmed that no country can remain indifferent to the challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the need for all nations to collaborate in addressing the issue. Additionally, 82.69 percent pointed out that tackling climate change is not only integral to economic development but also an obligation for major countries.
This extensive poll, conducted in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, gathered responses from 13,112 individuals within 24 hours. The overwhelming call for action underscores the global community’s expectation that developed nations lead the way in combating climate change and fostering sustainable development for the future.
Reference(s):
CGTN Poll: Over 80% urge developed countries respond to climate change
cgtn.com
