As California pursues its goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions—and considers still more ambitious ones—PPIC’s annual survey on environmental issues asked the state’s residents their views on climate change and energy. At a recent event in the capital, PPIC researcher Lunna Lopes provided the survey findings. Among the key points:
- Californians see global warming as a serious threat—and most do not think action to reduce global warming will lead to fewer jobs.
- There is strong support for the greenhouse gas emission reduction requirements in AB 32 and SB 32.
- Californians favor the energy goals in SB 350, and they also favor state support for solar power and electric vehicles.
- Many say water is the state’s top environmental issue—but most do not know the reduction targets of their local water district.