POLLING RESULTS RELEASED

Polling results released today show 31 per cent of Saskatchewan people say climate change is the number one environmental issue facing the province today.

“These results show that Saskatchewan people understand climate change and global warming, and are concerned about the impact on Saskatchewan,” Premier Lorne Calvert said.  “However, we need to continue to help people understand the significance of climate change and our responsibilities to take action for future generations.  Part of that effort includes the recent presentation by former U.S. vice-president Al Gore.”

Fifteen per cent of respondents said increasing alternative energy would be the single most important change that would improve Saskatchewan’s environment.  About 11 per cent said increasing public awareness would be the most important change while nine per cent named increasing recycling.

When asked to name the single most important action the provincial government should take to protect the environment, about 35 per cent of respondents said protect water quality and supply while nine per cent said increase green power production and nine per cent also said reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Public opinion polling is used to develop, deliver and improve programs and services.  The total cost of all government polling for the fourth quarter of 2006/2007 is $77,355.  The next release will be in July and will cover the period from April 1 to June 30.  All government polling can be found at www.executive.gov.sk.ca/polling.htm.

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For more information, contact:

Leah Sharpe
Media Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5780
Email: leah.sharpe@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-539-1902