The recently released HSBC Climate Confidence Index shows that people in developing economies exhibit the greatest concern, commitment and optimism towards the problem of climate change and in developed economies the greatest indifference, reluctance and fatalism.

Overall, the survey reveals that citizens of China and India are most optimistic that the problem of climate change can be overcome, while those in France, Germany and the UK are least optimistic that a solution will be found with the US, Mexico, Brazil and Hong Kong falling somewhere in between.

"The HSBC Climate Confidence Index is an important barometer of international public attitudes towards climate change," said John Beckinghausen, director of Sustainable Development & Operations, Corporate Real Estate, HSBC Bank USA, N.A. "Over time we believe it will enable us to better understand the actions individuals are prepared to take in reducing their carbon footprint and how we can work with governments and the business community to provide financial solutions to support them."

The research was based on a sample of 9,000 people in nine countries and territories. With regard to whose responsibility it is to tackle the problem, 68 percent of all respondents believe that governments should be playing the leading role, compared with NGOs, companies and individuals. Only 33 percent felt that governments play this role today.

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