In partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the Impact and Innovation Unit (IIU) has launched a multi-year program of research on climate change. The Program of Applied Research on Climate Action in Canada (PARCA Canada) combines behavioural science (BeSci) insights and methods with robust policy analysis to promote climate action. One of the main areas of focus involves the launch of a longitudinal survey that will, over time, collect data on research questions of interest to the promotion of climate action in Canada (e.g. transportation, home energy use, waste management, engagement with nature, preparedness for extreme weather, disaster recovery, etc.) using a large and nationally representative sample of Canadians.

The current project is the first wave of this longitudinal study (classified as public opinion research). This wave will produce baseline data for the Canadian context: 1) Climate change knowledge, beliefs and attitudes; 2) Self-reported intentions and levels of engagement in key pro-climate behaviours; 3) Predictors that are relevant to intentions, behaviours, and policy support on climate change; 4) Behaviour or attitudinal based segments within the population.