This annual environmental survey contained fairly basic questions about climate change, including the timing of global warming (whether or not it has already begun), causes (natural changes in the environment or human-induced), and consensus (whether or not scientists agree global warming is happening).

His study found that women conveyed slightly greater knowledge of climate change than men – agreeing that its affects were already being seen, that it is human-caused and that scientists think it is occurring. Women were also slightly more concerned about global warming than men.

This difference could have important implications, he said.

“Does this mean women are more likely to buy energy-efficient appliances and hybrid vehicles than men?” McCright said. “Do they vote for different political candidates? Do they talk to their children differently about global warming?”