Hazardous waste disposal number one environmental concern for public

The figures, part of the 2001 Survey of Public Attitudes to Quality of Life and to the Environment, reveal a growing climate of fear among the public in England, with 66% of householders stating that they are 'very worried' about the disposal of hazardous waste.

Click here for the full results of the 2001 Survey of Public Attitudes to Quality of Life and to the Environment.

Fears surrounding hazardous waste now surpass concerns about 'Mad cow' disease, pollution, climate change and even traffic congestion.

Speaking at the launch of the new survey, environment minister Michael Meacher said: “This survey shows that people really are concerned about their environment and the impact which today's lifestyles are having on it. They are becoming more aware of the big issues like climate change, and beginning to see it as important for both themselves and for the government to address.”

The new survey, published by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, also reveals growing public concern over the disposal of household waste. Three quarters of householders said they are worried about that issue, with one in three stating that they are 'very worried' about the disposal of household waste.

But despite the growing concerns, the survey showed that the percentage of householders regularly recycling – apart from paper – has actually fallen since 1996-7, from 47% to 42% for glass and from 34% to 29% for cans.

“It is not sufficient for us all to realise that the environment is a top priority issue if we are not going to do our bit to tackle the problems,” Mr Meacher said.

Over 3,700 adults over the age of 18 were interviewed across England for the survey. When asked for reasons why they did not recycle, respondents aged between 18 and 24 said &#39a; lack of time or desire' more often than other age groups. 'No kerbside collections', 'recycling facilities too far away' and 'lack of storage space' had slightly more of a bearing for other age groups.

Percentage of respondents 'very worried' about each issue, 2001