49% Europeans Would Pay More for Greener Energy Sources

The majority of Europeans consider climate change to be a very serious problem, with 49% saying they would be prepared to pay 5% more for energy produced from sources that emit less greenhouse gases, according to Eurobarometer's latest survey of 26,719 people in the 27 EU member states.

A large majority believes that the protection of the environment can boost economic growth in the European Union.

"The message of the European citizens is clear: the fight against climate change must remain a top priority of EU action. It confirms our belief that tackling climate change and overcoming the economic recession do not exclude each other," said Vice-president of the European Commission Margot Wallstroem.

A majority of Europeans consider that industry, citizens themselves, national and local governments as well as EU are not doing enough to fight climate change. Only 19% think that corporations and industry are doing about the right amount to fight climate change against 30% in the case of the EU.