Imagining carbon-neutral futures: Comprehensive narratives through citizen participation

Abstract

Carbon neutrality can be realized through a comprehensive, long-term, and participatory socio-economic transformation. This transformation can be catalyzed by the conceptualization and envisioning of a carbon-neutral future. However, there remains a dearth of comprehensive information about carbon-neutral futures accessible to the public. This study endeavored to fill this gap by offering a holistic portrayal of potential carbon-neutral futures, based on narrative scenarios developed through citizen participation and imagination within the Korean context. The study employed an innovative research approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods: (1) surveys designed to identify citizens' perceptions of carbon neutrality, focusing on disparities among youth, professionals, and laypeople, while also recognizing variances in climate information accessibility; and (2) a scenario contest served as a creative platform that empowered citizens to envision and depict carbon-neutral futures through engaging narrative forms. The study’s findings revealed a prevailing tendency among Koreans to envision pessimistic futures, coupled with concerns regarding the unfair distribution of costs and benefits during transition to carbon neutrality. Integrating the analysis results with these insights, the study identified an ideal future characterized by safety, economic stability, social equity, and the realization of carbon-neutral society actively driven by climate citizens. This paper asserts that comprehensive narratives derived from citizens' imaginations hold substantial value. They not only contribute to an enhanced comprehension of carbon-neutral futures but also serve as a potent instrument for propelling the advocacy and realization of such futures.