Approximately 40% of Australian women without children express hesitation about having kids due to climate change, according to a recent survey. The study highlights widespread anxiety over environmental issues, revealing significant differences in concern levels based on gender and political affiliation.

Survey Findings
The survey, commissioned by Clive Hamilton from Charles Sturt University and conducted by Roy Morgan Research, involved a representative sample of 2,000 Australians. It found that half of the respondents are very or extremely worried about climate change, with two in five believing that temperatures will be "much hotter" by 2050. The survey also indicated that more than one-third of Coalition voters perceive no change in climate conditions, contrasting sharply with the concerns of Labor, Greens, and independent voters, who are three times more likely to express high levels of anxiety about climate issues.

Gender Disparities in Concerns
The survey revealed stark gender differences in attitudes towards climate change. Among women without children, 40.4% reported being moderately or very hesitant about parenthood due to climate concerns, while only 17% of men felt the same. Hamilton noted that women's greater concern may stem from a "gendered calculus of risk," suggesting that women's values of care make them more receptive to scientific warnings about climate dangers.

Impact on Birth Rates
Hamilton warned that increasing anxiety over climate change could lead to a decline in Australia's birthrate. He emphasized the disconnect between young people's discussions about parenthood and governmental policy on demographic trends. The survey results echo findings from a 2019 Australian Conservation Foundation study, which indicated that one in three Australian women under 30 were reconsidering having children due to fears of an unsafe future linked to climate change.

Influence of Extreme Weather Events
Interestingly, the survey also examined the impact of living through extreme weather events on climate concern. Despite experiencing floods and fires since 2019, respondents showed only a slight increase in anxiety about climate change. Many attributed these events to natural factors rather than climate change, indicating a complex relationship between personal experience and environmental awareness.

Wrap-up
The survey underscores a growing trend among Australian women regarding their views on parenthood in the context of climate change. As concerns about environmental conditions rise, they may significantly influence future demographic patterns in Australia. Policymakers are urged to acknowledge these evolving attitudes as they plan for the country's demographic future.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team