News / Unite Students
Students are more concerned about climate change than Covid-19
New research from Unite Students has found that students across the UK are more concerned about climate change than any other issue in 2021 – including Covid-19.
According to the survey, 60 per cent of students believe that climate change is the top one of the top three most urgent priorities for world leaders to tackle today.
And of the 1,000 students that were surveyed, a huge number are taking bold action to tackle climate change. According to Unite Students, 88 per cent of students are limiting their air travel annually for environmental reasons.
And whilst most students are changing their daily routines to limit their impacts toward climate change – they can’t say the same about the government, universities or businesses, where only 18 per cent think the UK government is currently doing a good job at tackling climate change.
Dissatisfied with the lack of progress, students are calling on these institutions to demand changes such as cutting any ties with any companies that have a negative impact in terms of climate change.
“The climate emergency is one of the most pressing matters facing our society and it is encouraging to see students are so engaged on the issue,” said James Tiernan, head of energy & environment at Unite Students.
“Universities and accommodation providers have a real responsibility to help students live more sustainably, and also to significantly reduce the impacts of their own operations – something we’re fully committed to.”
”Our new sustainability strategy includes a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon operations and construction by 2030. This will require sustained investment in energy efficiency and renewables, but also the help and support of our employees and student customers. It is therefore very encouraging to see students expressing support for bold measures, and also taking action daily which will have a tangible impact.”
The Bristol Youth Strike for Climate Protest. Credit: Ellie Pipe.
Main photo: Phil Riley
Read more: Climate change, migration and the role of communities
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