The UK public remains sceptical about how much impact climate change will have on the country and believes the problem is being overstated by politicians and scientists, according to a poll out today.
Research by Ipsos Mori shows that while most Britons recognise the problem of climate change and that humans have played a role in causing it, many are not convinced that the issue is as bad as the scientists and politicians claim.
There is also scepticism about "greenspin" and a feeling that the situation is being overstated in order to raise revenue rather than save the planet.
Despite efforts by the government to encourage people to take action to make their own lives greener, the researchers found many were ignoring the messages, and listed other issues as of greater immediate concern.
Although 45% of those questioned said climate change was the greatest threat to mankind, terrorism, crime, graffiti and even dog mess were all higher on the list of local concerns.
Ipsos Mori interviewed 2,031 adults in their homes between June 14 and 20, and found that 56% believe scientists themselves are still questioning climate change and believe there is a live debate going on, when in fact there is virtual scientific consensus.
Phil Downing, head of environmental research at Ipsos Mori, said: "Our research shows there is still a lot to do to win the public over on climate change and encourage low-carbon lifestyles.
"We are alive to climate change and very few people actually reject out of hand the idea the climate is changing or that humans have had at least some part to play in this.
"However, a significant number have many doubts about exactly how serious it really is and believe it has been over-hyped."
Mr Downing said the majority of the population were "fairweather environmentalists", who were unwilling to give up luxuries like flying, driving and owning a plasma TV.
"The government needs to find new ways to sell low-carbon lifestyles to the public and that any changes they make will be matched by others as part of a collective solution," he said.
Sir David Read, vice president of the Royal Society, said: "It is crucial to emphasise that the vast majority of climate scientists believe that humans are having an unprecedented effect on our climate.
"People should not be misled by those that exploit the complexity of the issue, seeking to distort the science and deny the seriousness of the potential consequences of climate change.
"The science very clearly points towards the need for us all-nations, businesses and individuals to do as much as possible, as soon as possible to avoid the worst consequences of a changing climate."