Decreasing Environmental Quality Threatens Health

Environmental Quality: The general consensus regarding the quality of the environment is worse than it was two years ago: one-third rates the environmental quality in Germany as „rather poor“ (2004: only 17%). The assessment of global environmental conditions has decreased dramatically. Only 9% rate the worldwide quality of the environment as good, 55% think it is “rather poor,” and 36% come to the conclusion that it is “very poor” – twice as many as two years ago.

Health Stressors: Compared to the earlier studies, the number of those who hold environmental problems responsible for significant strains on physical health and well-being has increased. A little more than one out of four Germans (26%) considers him- or herself to be suffering under environmental problems. And we are expecting more and stronger strains in the future: 75% predict that their children and grandchildren will experience strong or very strong strains on their health.

Genetically Modified Food: No thank you! 80% perceive the cultivation of genetically modified plants as rather dangerous and 40% claim they would not purchase such products. Only one in four Germans believes that the state is doing enough to protect the health and safety of the population within the realm of genetic engineering.