Press release – 8 September, 2014Sydney 3rd September, 2014. Polling conducted by Lonergan Research reveals Australians have made the link between the increase in extreme weather events and the real threat of rising insurance premiums. But of more concern to the fossil fuel industry is the call for the introduction of an extreme weather levy.Polling conducted in mid-August found seven in ten (72%) Aussies think extreme weather events made worse by global warming in Australia (e.g. floods, bushfires etc.) are currently increasing insurance premiums, including 32% who say it’s significantly increasing premiums.
That level of concern looks set to worsen as almost three quarters (74%) of Aussies think extreme weather events will increase insurance premiums by 2020, including 39% who expect it will significantly increase premiums.
“Whether it’s the historic floods of Queensland or the terrifying mega fires that tore into the heart of rural Victorian communities, Australian communities are already feeling the impact of extreme weather, just as
IPCC
modelling predicted,” said Leanne Minshull, Greenpeace International Climate and Energy Campaigner.
“While the mining industry is patting itself on the back for having successfully removed the Mining Tax, it is clear Australian communities have made the link between fossil fuel emissions and extreme weather events that are devastating communities, here and across the globe.”
“That’s why Greenpeace is calling for the introduction of an extreme weather levy to be paid by the companies that are profiting from fossil fuels, the coal, gas and oil companies.”
The polling has also found three quarters (76%) of Australians disagree that fossil fuel companies should be allowed to pollute the air for free (excluding ‘don’t knows’, 86% disagree, 14% agree).
And two thirds (66%) of Australians agree the directors of fossil fuel companies that are found to have misled the public about the impact of pollution on global warming should be held legally accountable (excluding those with no opinion, 78% agree, 22% disagree).
“These results send a very clear message the broader community is no longer willing to tolerate company executives who deal in spin and dissembling to talk down the impacts of climate change while profiting from its creation,” continued Minshull. “And makes it clear the issue of pricing carbon pollution is still one the community wants resolved.”
For further information contact
Leanne Minshull, Greenpeace International: international mobile 31646162025
Julie Macken Media Officer Greenpeace Australia Pacific: 0400 925 217.