This section highlights the main findings of the surveys and workshops, which have implications for those looking at issues around energy and the environment. All survey questions were asked in the context of views and attitudes towards energy and the environment.

British children are seven times more likely to say they are worried about global warming than they are about crime and violence – rising to ten times for teenagers. Adults rate concern over the environment as second only to concern about crime. (see The views of Britain's children - Awareness and knowledge)

British children say they are undertaking more ‘green’ activities at home than at school. In contrast, adults think school is the best place to educate children on the environment. (see The views of Britain's children - Changing at home and school)

Children’s favourite way to change the way they use energy is to walk to school. They also believe renewable energy sources are the way forward. Teenagers also believe that all energy should come from ‘green’ sources. (see The views of Britain's children - Ideas to change the we we use energy)

The great majority of Britons (77%) believe that people are having a destructive impact on the environment. This view is held across all age groups and all regions of the UK. (see The views of Britain's adults)

But, a third of adults claim not to know how they can make a personal difference to reducing their impact on the environment. Aside from recycling, energy efficient light bulbs, and insulation, many Britons feel they do not know what practical and tangible actions they can take. (see The views of Britain's adults - Change at home)

Generally Britons tend to save energy to save money, rather than for ethical or environmental reasons. Measures such as turning off lights or keeping the heat down are often seen as a way to keep bills down rather than to help the environment. (see The views of Britain's adults - Change at home)

Britons prefer renewable energy options such as offshore wind and wave power, to solutions such as a personal carbon allowance or community power stations. However, there is also some uncertainty over the benefits and costs of renewable options. Many feel they need to know about the practicalities of implementation. (see The views of Britain's adults - Future sources of energy)

People are looking for leadership on energy and the environment, but are not finding it. This issue is compounded by a lack of trust in many organisations and institutions. Britons want government and business to ‘lead by example’ and promote specific solutions that consumers can adopt. (see Leadership on energy)