CLIMATE change matters more to people than economic growth, according to new research from one of the Thames Valley’s train companies.
South Western Railway asked YouGov to find out what matters to its passengers, and nearly half of those polled – 49% – said that the firm should prioritise environmental policies, while just over a third – 34% – felt that finance came first.
The research ties in with its new sustainability strategy which sets out its Journey to a Better Future programme for serving, safeguarding, and strengthening its people, places, and the planet, and follows on from its commitment to be net zero by 2040.
This deadline is 10 years ahead of the UK’s overall legal deadline.
Even though the nation is in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, the research reveals that younger people (18-24) are more likely to prioritise policies for tackling climate change (58%) over policies for economic growth (18%).
Majorities of those living in London (59%) and Scotland (60%) believe that policies tackling climate change should be the priority.
That said, the research suggests people are split over the priority for public spending, with 43% of those polled believing spending on preventing the impact of climate change is a priority now and should be significantly increased, even if this means cuts are needed elsewhere.
This compares to 42% who believe we should focus on other more urgent priorities.
Just over half (51%) of the public is concerned about future travel disruption due to extreme weather associated with climate change.
However, the polling also showed the public is less willing to prioritise the environment when it comes to spending their own money:
47% say their current priority is saving money, regardless of the effect this may have on the environment, compared with only 16% who prioritise acting in an environmentally friendly way, regardless of the effect this may have on their personal finances.
52% of all those polled are not willing to pay extra to use more environmentally friendly forms of transport, but almost two-fifths (38%) would pay more, rising to 50% of Londoners.
A majority (56%) of the public thinks that environmental impact is important when deciding what mode of transport to use, but more of the public believes that convenience (95%) and cost (91%) are important. Those living in London are the most likely (68%) to believe the environmental impact is important.
SWR says it believes the railways will be a critical part of building a more sustainable future for the economy and society.
It strategy contains additional commitments: from ensuring that SWR is net biodiversity positive at all its stations and depots by 2030, to securing the top accreditation under the Government’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme, and publishing and actioning a diversity, equality, and inclusion strategy roadmap.
Claire Mann, Managing Director of South Western Railway, said: “This polling shows that, even during times of economic hardship, people want to us to prioritise doing things more sustainably.
“Our bold strategy is designed to deliver just that, setting out a series of pledges to have a positive impact on our people, places, and ultimately our whole planet.
“This is just the start of our journey to a better future and I look forward to bringing it to life with all our customers, colleagues, and the communities we’re so proud to serve.”
