Initial public perceptions of carbon sequestration: Implications for engagement and environmental risk communication strategies
(2008) Initial public perceptions of carbon sequestration: Implications for engagement and environmental risk communication strategies. International Journal of Global Environmental Issues 8(1/2):pp. 147-164.
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Abstract
Despite widespread scientific acceptance, little is known about how the public perceives carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by capturing and storing carbon dioxide in underground sites. Thus, through an online survey (n=1273), this study investigated Australians’ knowledge and perceptions of CCS. Most believed it was important for Australia to reduce carbon emissions, yet only 18% had previously heard of CCS and only 5% closely followed the greenhouse debate. People were keen to participate in public discussions and learn more before forming a definite opinion, although many had "not-in-my-backyard" reactions and raised concerns about the risks and effectiveness of the technology and the trustworthiness of organisations. By highlighting current perceptions and knowledge about CCS, this research informs environmental risk communication strategies and emphasises the importance of early engagement, education and partnerships between stakeholders for fostering informed decision-making about its use in the Australian context.
| Item Type: | Journal Article |
|---|---|
| Status: | Published |
| Keywords: | risk perception, carbon sequestration, trust, knowledge, environmental risk communication strategies, engagement |
| Subjects: | 370000 Studies in Human Society > 370100 Sociology > 370107 Social Change |
| ID Code: | 12357 |
| Deposited By: | Miller, Evonne |
| Deposited On: | 08 February 2008 |
| Alternative Locations: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1504/IJGENVI.2008.017265 |
| Copyright Owner: | Copyright 2008 Inderscience |
| Copyright Statement: | Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher. |