The relation between cultural structures and risk perception: How does social acceptance of carbon capture and storage emerge?

In this research, the highly controversial Carbon Capture and Storage technology is scrutinized from the cultural structures perspective. We argue that it is crucial to have a richer understanding of where public opinion on the technology comes from, and we develop a model that helps to understanding this.

We use survey data provided by the Eurobarometer. Also, six cross-cultural dimensions developed by Hofstede are used. Lastly, two indices, Risk Acceptance and Self-Benefit, are used to design a regression model to argue that public acceptance and risk perception of the novel technology is not a simple case of information transfer and knowledge dissemination.

We provide a framework for analysts and policy makers who wish to understand why and how societies and social actors challenge and contest the technology.