With climate crisis, 80% of French people think they have to change their lifestyle

(Boursier.com) – Although COP29 has just opened to debate global solutions to the climate crisis, A new survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB)*, published this Monday, shows that 80% of French people think they need to change their lifestyle to deal with climate change, which ‘ highlight the importance of climate issues. .

The results show that climate challenges have become the second priority issue for France, just behind the increase in the cost of living. “Adapting to climate change is essential, not only to protect life, but also to seize an important economic opportunity,” said Ambroise Fayolle, EIB Vice-President for Climate Action and Development, who was named in the press release.

Therefore, 97% of the French people believe that it is necessary for their country to adapt its infrastructure and its policies to climate risks. Among them, 56% believe that this change must be a national priority in the coming years, a figure higher than the European Union average (50%). The EIB emphasizes that this priority is essential in strengthening the resilience of local communities.

Awareness heightened by natural disasters

This year’s natural disasters have reinforced this awareness. France was hit hard, especially by severe flooding in March, characterized by violent winds and rising water levels that led to the death of five people and declared a state of natural disaster in more than 300 cities . The frequency and intensity of these events is increasing, increasing the economic costs for local authorities and the State.

As #COP29 starting in Baku, what do the Europeans think of it #Climate Change? ?? Our 90% influence on the EU. Discover Europeans?? – European Investment Bank (@EIB), via Twitter

The EIB also highlights the French consensus on the importance of immediate investments: 88% of those questioned believe that delaying change would only lead to future costs. “By making the necessary investments today, we can protect communities, create quality jobs and strengthen local economies,” Ambroise Fayolle insists.

“Change is a priority”

In addition, 90% of respondents see these investments as a long-term economic opportunity for the country. These resilient projects, which include strengthening infrastructure and creating green jobs, are seen as a solution to boost the local economy while responding to the climate crisis.

With alarming forecasts from scientists, who announce an increase in extreme weather phenomena, “change is an essential priority,” said Ambroise Fayolle. “We are ready to provide financing and advisory services to increase the climate resilience of regions, cities and businesses,” he said.