Perceptions of geoengineering: Public attitudes, stakeholder perspectives, and the challenge of 'upstream' engagement

Abstract

Geoengineering-the deliberate large-scale manipulation of the planetary environment to counteract anthropogenic climate change-is receiving an increasing amount of attention from academics, policy and civil society stakeholders, and members of the general public. This article reviews the available literature on perceptions of geoengineering, including public attitudes and stakeholder perspectives. We describe some of the challenges of engaging with these audiences at such an 'upstream' phase in the development of geoengineering technologies. We conclude with reflections on the importance of eliciting public and stakeholder views, despite the challenges associated with upstream engagement, and identify a number of key research priorities for those involved in upstream engagement on geoengineering. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.