The notion that a population (i.e., Europeans) might be more interested in science than sports is certainly an intriguing proposition given the constant coverage given sports topics as opposed to science topics in various media here in Canada. More from last week’s news item on Nanowerk,

According to a new Eurobarometer report (pdf) [on Science and Technology] published today, nearly 80% of Europeans say they are interested in scientific discoveries and technological developments, compared to 65% interested in sport. Over 70% of Europeans think EU-funded research will become more important in the future. 57% think scientists should put more effort into communicating about their work and 66% believe governments should do more to interest young people in scientific issues. Europeans overwhelmingly recognise the benefits and importance of science but many also express fears over risks from new technologies and the power that knowledge gives to scientists.

Research, Innovation and Science Commissioner Máire Geoghegan-Quinn said: “The success of the Europe 2020 Strategy depends on cutting edge science to keep Europe competitive. In turn, that means ordinary Europeans need to back science and keep the pressure up on government and on industry to invest in it. These results show a very high awareness of the importance of science. But they also show that both politicians – like me – and scientists themselves need to explain better what we are doing and why.”

As for the interest in science communication and education, that too is striking. I haven’t had a chance to review the report but I hope to do so in the not too distant future.

You can also check out other Eurobarometer reports at the European Commission’s Public Opinion web page.