The Impact of Political Polarization on Climate Justice: Ideological Resistance, Disinformation, and Pathways to Bipartisan Engagement

Author: Kate Vanchieri

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 31

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Political polarization is increasingly a strong barrier to effective climate action, fueling climate change denial and obstructing climate justice policy. The role of elite rhetoric, ideological identity, and disinformation in shaping popular opinion on climate policy, are examined. The study applies climate change rhetoric content analysis in political media, policy debate, and public opinion surveys, questioning how perceived ideological threats explain opposition to climate policy. Evidence indicates that climate denial is reinforced by ideological identity, elite-motivated disinformation, and perceiving environmentalism as an election threat. Yet, well-crafted messaging about economic benefits and localized effects of climate change can reduce resistance. This contributes to the body of literature by focussing on how ideological resistance and misinformation hinder climate justice and what can be used to stimulate bipartisan engagement. Future research should explore how international politics determine climate polarization and how communications approaches can be adapted based on different ideological and cultural settings.