How scientific and partisan media shape support for research on stratospheric aerosol injection

[Geoengineering News]

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09644016.2024.2375900

Authors 

Toby Bolsen, Risa Palm & Justin T. Kingsland

Published online: 05 Jul 2024

https://doi.org/10.1080/09644016.2024.2375900

Abstract

Stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI) is a controversial technique that has been suggested as a means of temporarily halting global warming. A study conducted on 441 individuals in the US in November 2023 investigated the impact of three video presentations either promoting or opposing research on SAI. Two of the videos were presented by scientific experts either promoting or opposing further research into this technology. The third was politicized, featuring Tucker Carlson on Fox News, and arguing that SAI would endanger Americans. We found that all three of the video presentations had a strong influence on general support for or against research, and that the politicized presentation not only reduced support for research but also reduced trust in science and technology to provide solutions to problems facing humanity. The findings suggest the strong impact of messaging on public opinion about research into SAI as a climate change intervention strategy.

Source: Taylor & Francis