Public perceptions of unusually warm weather in the UK: impacts, responses and adaptations

摘要: Evidence of socio-economic sensitivity to climate variability is accumulating and largely based on modelling studies. This paper examines the impacts extremes (unusually hot summers unusually warm winters) from perspective perception general pub- lic. Postal surveys were conducted for 2 regions in UK: (1) southern England (2) central Scotland. Information was gathered regarding attitudes anomalies, perceived risks benefits recent extremes, potential such anomalies becoming more common future. The assessed with regard individual's 'everyday life' national 'good'. responses indicate a high level awareness deep concerns about global warming tempered by an appreciation that there both positive negative outcomes. For several issues, respondents Scotland differed significantly. In particular, English than Scottish residents judge as having severe impact agriculture air quality do residents. We suggest regional differences could at least part explain apparent geographic response. results short-term long-term adaptive behavioural season exceptional warmth willingness implement further lifestyle adjustments hypothetical future which events become common.