The French, pessimistic about the future of the planet, say they are mostly ready to get more involved in reducing their carbon footprint if they are encouraged to do so, according to an Odoxa poll for the Ebra group dailies published on Wednesday.

As the COP26 on the climate in Glasgow approaches in November, 70% of French people say they are pessimistic about the future of the planet, and 44% consider that environmental protection is a priority subject.

The concept of a carbon footprint is well known, but only 48% of those questioned know exactly what it is.

To limit it, a majority adopt “eco-friendly practices” on a daily basis such as sorting waste (81%), using reusable bags for shopping (80%), drinking tap water (61%), of seasonal products only (59%)…

No way to give up red meat

But the commitment is less in "areas emitting high CO2", details the survey: no question of giving up red meat for 47% of the French, nor the car for daily trips (50%), nor the plane for journeys in France (57%). Progress also remains to be made to reduce the digital carbon footprint, since only 41% have given up streaming to watch videos, 40% are limiting their sending of emails and attachments and less than 30% have bought videos. refurbished phones or computers.

Today, 76% say they are motivated to strengthen their good ecological practices in the coming months. This intention is even more noticeable among employees (82%) and managers (81%), women (81%) and 25-34 year olds (80%). But with a brake: more than 60% consider this commitment expensive and are not ready to pay more. They also feel poorly informed on how to implement good practices, and insufficiently encouraged by their companies (55%), the State and local communities (60%), or their fellow citizens (61%).

Asked about an incentive fee, 70% of them declared "that this fine articulation between ecological benefit and financial interest would motivate them", concludes the survey.

The survey was carried out for the Ebra and Suez groups between June 30 and July 2, with a representative sample of 1,510 French people.

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