Majority of consumers globally aware of climate change risks, future damage from disasters

Consumers worldwide are aware of future risks they may face, but still want their political leaders to do more to take on natural disasters and promote energy efficiency, according to a new survey from Swiss Re.

According to the poll, commissioned by Swiss Re for its 150th anniversary and conducted by Gallup, 84% of consumers believe that climate change will be responsible for more natural disasters in the future.

The poll included nearly 22,000 people over age 15 across 19 markets on five continents in April and May.

Nearly all of those surveyed said they’re concerned about prospects for the economy, and concerns about global warming was also widespread, according to the results.

For example, 77% said they fear they will face damage from an earthquake, flood or other natural disaster within the next 20 years and that they will be left with the bill for the damage by the state.

Still, only about a quarter (27%) think their government’s disaster preparedness is “bad” or “very bad,” according to the research.

Most respondents were willing to take action to address future risks, including by spending their own money. However, many also said that government policy doesn’t fully address today’s risks and those faced by future generations.

But the vast majority (91%) still want governments to do more to promote energy efficiency, and 75% said they would use renewable energy if it were made available. However, 48% said they can’t afford to pay more for energy.

“These findings show that individuals are willing to take as much responsibility as their leaders,” noted Swiss Re’s group chief risk officer David Cole.

“The findings are a call for better co-operation between government and the private sector,” he added. “It’s vital to prepare systematically for the future and make societies more resilient. That’s where Swiss Re also plays a key role with its risk expertise.”

Hunger is also a major concern worldwide, with 80% saying they think more food needs to be produced to feed everyone. A majority, 66%, also say they think that shortages in their country are due to high prices suggesting  that the public and private sectors need to do more to make food available to all.

“One striking and encouraging outcome of this survey is the broad agreement between young and old – both on how they perceive risks and how societies can best address the risks,” Cole noted. “This alliance between the generations is exactly what we need to create the inclusive, resilient communities of tomorrow.”