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Climate change risk perception and communication: addressing a critical moment?
1Understanding Risk Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT, Wales, UK. PidgeonN@cardiff.ac.uk
Summary
Effective climate change communication requires a revised approach to risk and uncertainty. Understanding public perceptions and emotions is crucial for informing climate policy and adaptation decisions globally.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Risk analysis
- Communication studies
Background:
- Climate change presents significant global challenges for societies and policymakers.
- Anthropogenic climate change is scientifically established, yet risk discourses are increasingly used in policy for adaptation.
- Existing approaches to climate risk communication need fundamental revision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore climate change risk perceptions and communication strategies.
- To address interdisciplinary issues in risk analysis and communication related to climate change.
- To foster better public engagement and inform climate policy decisions.
Main Methods:
- Compilation of seven papers from a 2010 workshop on "Climate Risk Perceptions and Communication."
- Analysis of diverse topics including climate uncertainties, media influence, public engagement, and emotional responses.
- Examination of uncertainty transfer and localization of hazard impacts in climate communication.
Main Results:
- Climate change risk communication faces challenges due to scientific consensus versus policy discourse.
- Public perceptions of climate change are influenced by factors like media, emotions, and localized impacts.
- Effective communication strategies are vital for addressing climate change uncertainties.
Conclusions:
- A revised conceptualization of climate risk communication is essential.
- Integrating insights on perception, emotion, and uncertainty is critical for effective climate action.
- Improved climate change risk communication is paramount for future policy and decision-making.
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