Public perceptions and attitudes to mitigation and adaptation measures linked to Climate Change
This report examines how Irish citizens understand climate change, climate science, and climate action. It explores why broad acceptance of climate science does not always translate into support for climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. Building on earlier CLIMATUDE research into Ireland’s policy and regulatory landscape and public trust in institutions, the report demonstrates that climate action is shaped by social, cultural, economic, political, and affective factors. It focuses on the gap between accepting climate science and implementing effective and socially just climate responses.
- Authors
Gough, Rachel; Creed, Elizbeth; Lennon, Breffní; Dunphy, Niall.
- Year
- 2026
- Category
- Report
- Full Citation
Gough R, Creed EM, Lennon B, Dunphy NP. Public perceptions and attitudes to mitigation and adaptation measures linked to climate change. CLIMATUDE EPA-funded project; 2026. doi:10.5281/zenodo.21639045.
- Link to Publication
- https://zenodo.org/records/21639046
Abstract
Most people in Ireland accept that climate change is real and that human activities contribute to it. However, this acceptance does not always lead to support for policies designed to reduce emissions or prepare for climate impacts. This report explores why this gap exists. It shows that people’s responses to climate action are influenced not only by scientific information but also by their values, experiences, economic circumstances, political views, trust in institutions, and perceptions of fairness. Understanding these factors can help develop climate policies that are effective, publicly supported, and fair.
CLIMATUDE
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