The media has been hyping the environment as a major political issue over the past few months and today’s Globe featured a complete front page spread, pages upon pages of articles, and even green trim on the title. Inside, they publish the results from the latest Gregg poll:
How likely is it that you would vote for your local Green Party candidate if an election were held within the next year?
Very likely 4% [clearly the 8-11% numbers we keep hearing are soft then]
Somewhat likely 16%
Somewhat unlikely 21%
Very unlikely 47%
What is the most important issue facing Canada today?
Environment 26% [up from 4% a year ago]
Health care 18%
Best Plan? 
Keep trying Kyoto 63%
We’ll never reach Kyoto goals – go with made in Canada plan 30%
Could global warming harm future generations?
Yes 83%
No 14%
Which Party has the best plan for the environment?
Liberals 16%
CPC 12%
NDP 9%
Green 27%
BQ 2%
Also…
76 per cent are willing to pay to have their houses retro-fitted to become more energy efficient
73 per cent would reduce the amount they fly to times when it is only absolutely necessary
72 per cent would pay more for a fuel-efficient car
62 per cent are willing to have the economy grow at a significantly slower rate
61 per cent would reduce the amount they drive in half.
But…
Only 34% support higher gas and fuel prices
SO… 
It’s abundantly clear that the environment has exploded onto the scene over the past few months as THE issue in Canada. Because it’s rise as a major issue has been so fast, this leaves us with many questions, none of which I’ll attempt to answer right now [that’s for a future post]. But I’d be curious to read what other people think about this, in the comments section:
1. Why did the environment suddenly become such a major issue? Something pushed it over the tipping point, but what?
2. Do Canadians really care, or are they only telling pollsters it’s a big issue because they feel they should?
3. Would Canadians actually vote for the Green Party? If so, who does that hurt the most?
4. Is this a ballot question? Or is it the new healthcare?
5. How much are Canadians actually willing to pay? [I don’t for the life of me believe that 61% of Canadians would cut their driving in half]
6. If this becomes a ballot question, which party does it help the most?
