In 2006 and 2007, questions about environment and health were added to the Survey in response to growing awareness of, and focus on, environmental concerns.
The majority in all groups felt that negative health impacts will become more severe over the next few years from (in descending order of percent saying "more severe") air pollution, water pollution, increased greenhouse gases, using up our natural resources, and urban growth. A plurality said the same of contamination of food. View the full data table. View graphs.
In 2006, all groups were asked what they would be willing to do to help the environment. The responses show salient differences between groups. The greatest number of respondents said they would be willing to "buy more energy efficient appliances" and "drive a smaller or more fuel efficient vehicle," with the public showing the least willingness overall, pharmacists as the least among health care providers, while managers showed the most willingness. In three other options, namely "reduce my use of air-conditioning/heating at home," "use public transportation or alternative means of transport instead of driving," and "drive less," pharmacists were well below all other groups in terms of willingness, while the public were below the remaining health care provider groups. View the full data table. View graphs.
In 2007, the public was asked what it had actually done to help the environment. A significant majority cited "recycling household waste," "use reusable grocery bags and food storage containers," "reduced the use of heating and air conditioning at home," and "bought more energy efficient appliances." A smaller majority said "drive a smaller/more efficient vehicle," and a minority cited "composting organic matter at home" and "use public transport or alternative means of transport instead of driving." View the full data table. View graphs.