A new poll commissioned by the University of Cambridge shows nearly two-thirds of adults (61%) expect global research universities, to come up with new innovations that will help to reduce the effects of climate change.
This is ahead of the government (47%) and private sector businesses (46%).
The UK public believe that capturing more carbon and alternative fuels for cars and planes, as well as improved batteries and will have the greatest impact on climate change.
Respondents want the government to listen to universities when making climate policy, ahead of all other interest groups tested.
Public First carried out a survey of 2,000 UK adults on behalf of the University of Cambridge. Findings demonstrate just how important the public believe research universities are in the fight against climate change, developing innovations to head off the looming climate and nature crises.
The poll results showed that the public thinks the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere (38%), alongside the development of alternative fuels for cars and aircraft (37%) and better batteries (30%) that store larger amounts of energy are the most pressing problems.
Respondents told Public First that carbon removal from the atmosphere was a key priority.
Research shows the planet’s most effective carbon removal agent is still nature and as a philanthropic entity the Carbon Technology Research Foundation was set up to fund cutting-edge innovation into the application of biotechnology to deliver enhanced, scalable solutions for carbon sequestration.
From work to develop CO2 hoovering plants, to methane eating bacteria, the aim of CTRF is to highlight the significant potential in this area, by growing the current research knowledge pool, as well as demonstrating the case for additional investment from other foundations, companies and government agencies.
Luke Williams, Head of Research Programmes for CTRF comments
“These survey results are not at all surprising given the strength of our Universities in the UK. However, the wider financial and policy support we need to achieve the full potential science offers should not be underestimated. A global effort with public and private investment is absolutely necessary. What cannot be captured in a poll like this is the scale required and whilst research can certainly realise the breakthroughs and innovations needed, this cannot happen in a vacuum or without funding for early stage foundational work. At CTRF, we are focused on accelerating greenhouse gas removal based on supercharging natural systems and we need more funders to join this effort.”