Economy outranks environment fear

Nearly two thirds of Scots said they used energy efficient lightbulbs

The economy is seen as a more important issue facing Scotland than the environment, according a survey.

The credit crunch (38%), crime (32%) and the constitution (17%) were ranked higher than environmental issues (12%).

Mori questioned 3,054 people for the Scottish Environmental Attitudes and Behaviours Survey.

Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham said people needed convincing that climate change would affect them directly.

"Many people see climate change as a global problem but not as an issue affecting Scotland or their communities," she said.

"But milder winters and more floods mean the evidence is now on our doorstep and can no longer be ignored.

"People have to realise that they are a fundamental part of the environment. Just as we impact on it, it has an impact on us.

"Our own behaviour makes a real difference and the good news is that greener behaviour not only helps save the planet it helps save us money too."

Some behaviours remain stubborn, most notably driving to work and the shops Roseanna Cunningham

Only 4% of those questioned thought the environment was the "single most important issue" facing Scotland.

But it was mentioned by more people (35%) when they were asked if it was an important issue "facing the world", equal with the economy but behind war and terrorism (43%).

A majority (68%) thought it was worth them doing something as individuals to help the environment but 37% said it was a low priority in their lives.

The survey found that driving remained the most popular way of getting to work and grocery shopping, with speed or convenience the most common reasons given.

There was some evidence, however, of people changing their behaviour, with 79% hanging up their washing to dry and 63% using energy saving lightbulbs.

Ms Cunningham said: "There is much to be positive about. There are high levels of environmental awareness and many greener behaviours are now part of people's daily lives.

"However, some behaviours remain stubborn, most notably driving to work and the shops."

The findings were based on face-to-face interviews with a sample of Scots carried out between August and November 2008.