90% of Romanians believe that climate change is a real fact, according to the latest sociological research conducted by UNSAR in partnership with IRES. The percentage is similar to the one that emerges from the analysis made in the previous year, a sign that Romanians continue to be concerned about the reality of climate change.

The full results of the research will be made public in October.

Compared to the previous edition of the study, there have been some important changes in the Romanians' perception when it comes to the type of climate change that affects us. Thus, now, the biggest concerns are related to: violent storms 29% (decreasing by 4 percentage points compared to 2019); drought, with 23%, which climbed to second place (+ 8pp compared to 2019); melting glaciers 15% (-1pp); heat waves 14% (-3pp); vegetation fires 9% (-5pp); floods 8% (+ 2pp).

Adrian MARIN, President of UNSAR, said:

"Romanians continue to be aware of the effects of climate change. We want society and the economy to be better prepared for future risks, such as natural disasters - which are often amplified by climate change. In this context, insurance plays an essential role in the financial protection of people and companies against such risks."

The study also reveals that Romanians have taken a number of measures to help reduce the negative impact of these climate changes, such as the use of energy efficient light bulbs (87%), selective waste collection (84%), the use of biodegradable packaging (81 %), the purchase of appliances with low energy consumption (79%), the recycling of reusable materials (76%) or the thermal insulation of the home (72%).

The IRES-UNSAR survey on the evolution of consumer perception of home insurance and the new risks posed by climate change was conducted on a sample of 1,181 respondents, aged over 18, in August 2020, using the CATI (Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing) method.

Established in 1994, UNSAR - the National Union of Insurance and Reinsurance Companies in Romania represents 20 companies. They hold a share of about 80% of the local insurance market. UNSAR's activity aims to defend and represent the interests of insurers and reinsurers in Romania, to participate in improving the legislative framework in the insurance field, to promote insurance activity in Romania and to promote the most sustainable development of the industry domestically and internationally. Since 2007, UNSAR is a full member of the federation of European insurers and reinsurers - Insurance Europe.