CLIMATE CHANGE:Large majorities around the world believe that human activity causes global warming and that strong action must be taken, sooner rather than later, in developing as well as developed countries, according to a BBC World Service poll of 22,000 people in 21 countries.
An average of eight in 10 (79 per cent) say that "human activity, including industry and transportation, is a significant cause of climate change". Nine out of 10 say that action is necessary to address global warming. A substantial majority (65 per cent) choose the strongest position, saying that "it is necessary to take major steps, starting very soon".
The poll includes 14 of the 16 major economic powers invited by US president Bush to Washington later this week to discuss climate change and energy security. A key focus of discussion will be whether developing nations as well as developed countries should be required to limit their emissions of greenhouse gases.
The poll shows majority support (73 per cent on average) in all but two countries polled for an agreement in which developing countries would limit their emissions in return for financial assistance and technology from developed countries.