Resource Type: Social Science Research

Last week, the New York Times magazine published a feature about the failure to address the climate crisis when the science of the issue first came to light in the late 1970s. While the author argues that collective inaction is to blame, many critiques (see here, here and here) have argued otherwise. And while there were many dynamics discussed that aren’t in the Lab’s wheelhouse, we did want to weigh in on two of the article’s points related to engaging the public on climate change.

Why do some people minimize the social justice aspect of climate change, and how can we address this and spur action? This paper reviews the psychological factors at play, such as a desire to avoid negative emotions, stereotypes about who is a climate activist, and concern about how one will be perceived.

Adaptation does not necessarily undermine mitigation efforts. Providing people with information about possible adaptation strategies may not undermine support for more systemic mitigation strategies to combat climate change. Instead, informing people about the costs of adaptation may lead to a modest increase in mitigation support.            

During 2000 to 2016, total lobbying expenditures related to climate change legislation in the U.S. Congress amounted to $2 billion dollars, or 3.9% of total lobbying expenditure during this time period. The primary sectors involved include utilities, fossil fuel, and transportation corporations. Expenditures by environmental organizations and renewable energy corporations were much lower during this time.