The Success and Failure of An Inconvenient Truth and the Stern Report in Influencing Australian Public Support for Greenhouse Policy

Abstract

Longitudinal surveys were used to identify the effect of increased media climate change reporting because of An Inconvenient Truth, the Stern Report and drought. Results suggest that this was a catalyst for decreased support for policy action at low and moderate cost levels, while support marginally increased at higher costs. Similar results were found for additional information presented within questionnaire suggesting less engaged respondents chose the status quo if information was too complex, while others found the information strengthened the case for action. This highlights tension between ensuring debate is well informed and the risk of disengagement from presenting complex information.