We can’t do this alone 

Granton Community Gardeners is one of hundreds of initiatives across the UK demonstrating the power of collective action.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has just published the most recent update to its Public Attitudes Tracker. This periodical survey highlights both awareness of, and feelings towards climate change, climate action and low-carbon technologies. 

The survey has been conducted in various forms since 2021, with results currently published in three “waves” a year. The latest publication includes information about which kinds of climate action the respondents are already taking, and which they think can have the biggest impact on the climate. 

We’ve been looking at the results of this survey for a while, and something sticks out starkly: DESNZ has completely overlooked the importance and impact of collective action. 

Our co-founder Ric Casale said: 

“The results from this survey are a useful indication of how the UK public is feeling about the climate and nature crisis, but the Government is missing a trick when it puts so much focus on individual behaviour change. We know that the vast majority of people are concerned about climate change, but many people feel overwhelmed and immobilised by the thought that they have to face this alone.  

“At Carbon Copy, we see the groundswell of place-based collective action that is filling this gap between concern and doing something about it. There are countless examples across the UK of people coming together with others where they live or work, to tackle climate change collectively. 

“From projects that are reducing fuel poverty to boosting local economies to greening spaces, these initiatives are drawing down carbon, but this kind of action is not taken into account in the survey data. It deserves to be recognised as a vital part of the approach to addressing the climate crisis and participation levels recorded so we measure and communicate this shift towards collective behaviour.” 

This week’s data shows a slight increase in the number of people who are “fairly concerned” or “very concerned” about climate change (79%) compared to the last time the data was published, and more worryingly it also highlights a trend towards people feeling less empowered to take action. Fewer than 70% of people now agree with the statement: “I have the ability to make changes in my life that could help reduce climate change,” compared to over three-quarters (76%) in 2022. 

Ric added: 

“People’s attitudes towards climate action are influenced by how it is portrayed in the media, in their social circles and by those in power. With the focus so often being on individual action, which we know is only part of the solution, it’s not surprising that people feel unable to make a difference. By broadening this research out to include ideas about collective action, DESNZ could re-engage people and help to show them that they do have power when they work together.” 

This year our 25 Big Local Actions campaign is about highlighting steps that people can take together for climate and nature.  We’re providing useful information and guidance via our website, social media and podcast for those who are concerned about climate change and want to go beyond individual behaviour changes. To find out more about how to get started, visit our 25 Big Local Actions campaign landing page.