Extreme Weather Events

13 September 2023

Canada experienced a scorching hot summer marked by numerous instances of extreme weather events. From September 9 to 10, 2023, we surveyed Canadians about their perceptions of climate change, its causes, and desired future actions to fight it.

SOME OF THE KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR SURVEY ABOUT EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS IN CANADA INCLUDE…

CANADIANS ARE CONCERNED ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE

  • Despite economic concerns being considered the biggest issue facing Canada, 72% of Canadians remain worried about climate change. This number is higher among Quebecers (84%), women (80%), and those aged 18-34 (78%).
  • 74% of Canadians believe that extreme weather events are related to climate change, and 65% think they will occur more often in the future.
  • 61% of Canadians have taken steps to adjust their daily habits due to worries about climate change. Additionally, 68% of Canadians are intending to make changes in the near future. Women, as well as individuals between the ages of 18 and 34, appear to be more inclined to make changes in the future (75% and 74% respectively).
  • 40% of Canadians would make some changes to their behaviours even if this comes with a certain financial cost. This proportion is higher in the province of Quebec (50%).
  • 74% of Canadians support the idea that those who pollute more should pay more to address climate change.

Download the report to find out more.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

  • 1,526 Canadian residents aged 18 or older were surveyed online using Leger’s LEO online panel from September 9 to 10, 2023.
  • Using data from the 2021 Census, the results were weighted according to age, gender, mother tongue, region, education, and presence of children in the household in order to ensure a representative sample of the Canadian population.
  • A margin of error should not be associated with a non-probability sample. However, for comparison purposes, a probability sample of 1,526 respondents would have a margin of error of ± 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

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