Energy and Environment Growing Concerns Percent Rating as a "Top Priority" Energy Environment
With high fuel prices and instability in the Middle East, Americans are increasingly concerned about the nation’s energy situation. In January, 58% rated “dealing with the nation’s energy problem” a top priority, up from just 47% a year ago and 40% in January of 2003.
And while finding new energy and protecting the environment are often seen as conflicting goals, the public makes no such distinction. In concert with rising energy worries, Americans are becoming increasingly anxious about the environment. In January, 57% rated “protecting the environment” a top priority, up from 49% a year ago and just 39% in 2003.
Energy and Environment  | Growing Concerns  | Percent Rating as a "Top Priority"  | Energy Environment  | 58 57  | 49  | 49  | 46  | 40 39  | 2003  | 2004  | 2005  | 2006  | Source: Pew Research Center Jan 24. 2006 