PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF OCEANIC AND GEOLOGICAL CO_2 DISPOSAL

摘要

We conducted a two-part study to explore public perceptions of oceanic and geological CO_2 disposal. Both phases of the study used a modified version of the mental model method for risk perception and communication developed at Carnegie Mellon. The first phase of the study was conducted to explore people's beliefs about carbon capture and disposal. A modified mental models interview methodology, in which we iteratively supplied information and elicited reactions, was used to conduct face-to-face interviews with 18 lay respondents. While the interviews yielded a slightly positive overall reaction to carbon disposal, they also identified concerns, especially about oceanic disposal. Furthermore, the results suggested that the general public is interested in considering a greater range of energy system options, such as wind and solar generated power, for the control of atmospheric greenhouse gas than was presented in the materials of this first study. The second phase of the study built on the results of the first study using a non-interactive paper survey administered to 126 respondents. The design of the survey was shaped by the language and ideas used by respondents in the interview-based study. The survey presented information in greater detail about CO_2 disposal, and elicited responses in areas potentially related to the acceptance of the technology. Acceptance of CO_2 disposal methodologies was measured separately for oceanic and geological disposal, using two methods. Respondents rated their level of approval of each type of disposal, and ranked the disposal options along with seven other options to reduce CO_2 emissions from electricity use. Respondents preferred all other options, including nuclear power, over CO_2 disposal technologies, and showed a small preference for geological over oceanic disposal. The provision of information about CO_2 disposal technologies had only modest effects, showing decreased ratings for geological and oceanic disposal, with a stronger decrease for the latter.