Framing Climate Mitigation: Communication Strategies for Overcoming Polarization and Securing Bipartisan Support

Author: Shane Praver

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 78

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Political polarization continues to be a key obstacle for bipartisan support for climate change mitigation and policy adoption in the United States. Despite research suggesting that individuals’ willingness to transition from fossil fuels to renewables is largely dependent on how the issue is framed and messaged, identifying the most effective and consistent communication strategies that harness bipartisan support remains an obstacle. By examining public perception data from national surveys and comparing U.S. state-level legislative outcomes, this study will identify the most effective communication frames that are able to bridge political divides. This study seeks to further validate that market-oriented and economic prosperity frames that focus on localization and optimism are most successful at fostering support for climate mitigation. Greater research into communication strategies will equip policymakers and activists with the knowledge necessary to navigate the growing polarization over climate change and to successfully pass legislation.