Beyond environmental identity: Testing public support for novel carbon dioxide removal in Australia using structural...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Climate Change Mitigation
• Social Science

Background:

• Novel carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies are essential for climate change mitigation but face uncertain support and governance.
• Public acceptance is critical for large-scale CDR deployment, yet research is limited, especially in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Australia shows growing interest in novel CDR within research and policy circles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Australian public support for novel CDR technologies.
• To identify factors influencing public perceptions of CDR.
• To explore public views on Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage, Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage, Enhanced Rock Weathering, and Biochar.

Main Methods:

• A nationally representative survey of 340 Australians was conducted.
• Data were collected using quotas for age, gender, region, income, and education.
• A structural model was developed to analyze factors influencing public support.

Main Results:

• Trust in institutions and perceived benefits significantly increase public support for novel CDR.
• Concerns about tampering with nature negatively impact public support.
• Environmental self-identity positively correlates with support for CDR technologies.

Conclusions:

• Policymakers must build institutional trust and clearly communicate CDR benefits.
• Addressing public concerns regarding environmental integrity is vital for responsible CDR deployment.
• Understanding public perception is key to the successful implementation of climate change mitigation strategies.