Dynamics of Doubt: How ASHRAE Engineers Became Ozone Skeptics, 1974-89
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) exhibited science skepticism, delaying responses to the ozone crisis. Professional identity influenced their resistance to environmental policy changes regarding CFC emissions.
Area Of Science
- Environmental Science
- History of Science and Technology
- Engineering Policy
Background
- The 1970s ozone crisis presented significant environmental challenges.
- The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) was scientifically positioned to address ozone depletion.
- Science skepticism hindered timely responses to environmental issues in the twentieth century.
Purpose Of The Study
- To examine the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)'s response to the 1970s ozone crisis.
- To highlight the role of science skepticism in delaying environmental policy action.
- To explore how professional identity influences technical and environmental policy decisions.
Main Methods
- Historical analysis of ASHRAE's engagement with the ozone depletion issue.
- Examination of ASHRAE's rhetoric and policy stances regarding chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) emissions.
- Case study of science skepticism within a professional engineering community.
Main Results
- ASHRAE resisted regulatory changes concerning CFC emissions for over a decade.
- The organization framed environmental concerns as an attack on engineering and American technological dominance.
- Skepticism persisted even after industry acknowledgment of environmental harm and adoption of controls by corporations like DuPont.
Conclusions
- Science skepticism within scientifically literate communities can impede effective environmental responses.
- Professional identity played a significant role in shaping ASHRAE's resistance to environmental policy.
- Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing future environmental and technical policy challenges.