Ceilidh

Michael Zey
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But percentage convinced climate change is a reality remains steady
By RICHARD MORIN
Washington Post

WASHINGTON - A majority of Americans believes the Earth's atmosphere is heating up, but it doubts that global warming is to blame for the deadly storms that have struck the United States this hurricane season, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.

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The survey found that 56 percent believe that global warming is occurring, whereas 40 percent say they are not convinced. That is unchanged from a poll conducted in April, before the hurricane season.

Similar proportions doubt that global warming is to blame for this year's rash of major hurricanes. A modest majority — 54 percent — said the bad storm season is just one of those things "that happen from time to time," but 39 percent say it is the result of climate change.

Americans also are divided over whether the government should act now on global climate change. Nearly half — 47 percent — said the problem must be studied further before the government acts, while 41 percent said it requires "immediate government action."

Scientists have documented a gradual increase in Earth's temperature in recent decades. Most authorities on climate change believe that the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal and gasoline, is at least partially responsible for the rise. Some scientists disagree, however, saying the increase may be because of normal cycles.

President Bush has said he thinks global warming is occurring but that he is not convinced it is caused by human activity.