Despite what Fox News wants you to hear, extreme heat, wildfires and extreme weather lead to American public’s concern for climate

Climate change is here, and more Americans understand that.

The majority of Americans – a record high of 76% – understand that climate change is happening. A majority (55%) also believe that it is harming Americans, according to a new survey from Yale University and George Mason University.

With extreme weather, heat, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, the proportions of Americans who understand that global warming is happening grew six percentage points between March and September of 2021. More Americans are concerned about climate change now than at any other time since similar sentiment has been gauged since 2008.

Two-thirds of adults perceive more frequent extreme weather, with 46% saying that their local area has experienced extreme weather in the past year. A large majority of Democratic-leaning Americans say this (85%), compared with Republicans and GOP-leaning independents (44%).

One way to increase climate awareness? Simply talking about it is one way to start making a change. Climate Matters, a collaboration of global news networks discussing climate change, is on track for a record year of climate reporting.

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher