Americans and the environment

Purpose – Considers factors effecting environmental change in America, focusing on communication and wind power. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments. Findings – Surveys show that the average American is now finally aware of climate change. They know that green house gases in the Earth's atmosphere are rising to dangerous levels, that carbon emissions are to blame, and that climate change poses a very serious problem to the future of our planet. Despite this, surveys also show that they are doing precious little about it. On the whole lifestyles have not changed, even in the simplest ways. Americans might know the world is at risk but still they make little or no effort to recycle trash, use energy saving light bulbs or avoid using the car. This is a real predicament with growing urgency. So what is to be done? Practical implications – Offers advice on reformulating communications when it comes to climate change. Originality/value – Gives American attitudes to climate change, highlighting the importance of money and information for the very wealthiest as well as the average Americans.