Most Scottish people anticipate the costs of extreme weather events to increase over the next ten years, according to a recent poll. The survey, conducted by YouGov, revealed that seven out of ten Scots expect the financial impacts of climate-related incidents like Storm Eowyn to rise in the coming decade. The study also showed that an overwhelming majority believe that the costs of home insurance (80 per cent) and food (84 per cent) will surge due to climate change effects.
The aftermath of Storm Eowyn, which brought hurricane-force winds to Scotland last month, has left a lasting impact on the nation. First Minister John Swinney described the storm as a “ferocious assault” that underlines the urgency of climate action. The poll further indicated that 17 per cent of Scots have already felt the effects of climate change in the past year, with a quarter expecting cleanup costs from extreme weather events to escalate.
Concerns were also raised about the implications of climate change on various sectors, with 66 per cent worried about its impact on Scottish farmers and 55 per cent fearing the effects on those with lower incomes. The poll, commissioned by Uplift and based on responses from 1,083 Scottish adults, revealed that 72 per cent anticipate an increase in the financial burden of addressing climate impacts in the next decade.
Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon highlighted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis to mitigate its economic consequences, especially for households and businesses. She emphasized the importance of government intervention to tackle climate change effectively and safeguard communities from rising costs. Claire Larkin, Director at Parents for the Future Scotland, echoed these sentiments, stressing that climate change is not a distant issue but one that is impacting families today, particularly through rising food costs.
In addition to financial concerns, the poll highlighted the broader impacts of climate change on mental health, lifestyle choices, and property damage. As more Scots experience firsthand the repercussions of climate change, there is a growing awareness of the need for proactive measures to mitigate its effects and protect communities across Scotland.