Framing Co2 Storage Risk: A Cultural Theory Perspective

Abstract

This research note discusses risk perceptions of CO2 storage from a cultural theory perspective. Data for consideration is drawn from several publications by key stakeholders in the CO2 storage risk debate, as well as studies of (lay) public perceptions of risk. Two strands of further research are proposed based on the data, and a claim is made that publications from one stakeholder, the EU Commission, strongly indicate a risk framing that conforms to the hierarchical typology within cultural theory. Suggestions are made for more detailed fieldwork to confirm this finding and to investigate the research questions further.