Floods experience increases climate change action, study finds

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Flood defences in PorthcawlImage source, AP
Image caption,

An enormous wave crashes over Porthcawl harbour during the 2014 floods and tidal surges

People who have direct experience of extreme weather are significantly more likely to take action against climate change, a new study has found.

The Cardiff University research found those affected by UK floods in 2013-14 - including in west Wales - are more engaged with environmental issues.

Dr Christina Demski, of the university's School of Psychology, presented the paper on Wednesday.

The study surveyed almost 2,000 people.

Speaking at the Royal Geographical Society Annual International Conference, Dr Demski said those affected by floods are 70% more likely to mention climate change as one of top three issues facing Britain in the next 20 years.

"Perhaps more interestingly, this increased engagement with climate change then also translates into more support for actions to tackle climate change," she added.