Climate Change Adaptation in North America

Abstract

Broadcast meteorologists are in a position to convey knowledge about climate change to the public. These media professionals make deliberate choices about what information to omit or present to their audiences. Interviews with broadcast meteorologists revealed a wide range of attitudes about conveying cli- mate science to their viewers. Three significant concerns emerged from conversa- tions with participants: on-air time constraints are non-negotiable, pressure to be a “popular” personality is constant, and there is an enduring apprehension about taking a position associated with a perceived controversial topic or political viewpoint. Discomfort with these constraints affects the content choices of broad- cast meteorologists who might otherwise take a stand representing the scientific consensus on climate change. Keywords