Framing geothermal energy: Media’s role in public acceptance
Understanding public perceptions and social attitudes to geothermal energy is critical for the development of effective communication and planning approaches for a broad range of stakeholders to support sustainable development initiatives. Mass media communication plays a strong role in shaping public perception and opinion, steering policy decision making. Using a case study approach, this project will undertake a mixed-method analysis using quantitative and qualitative approaches to identify how geothermal energy is communicated in the media at national and local level. It will explore variations and frames, as well as what factors influence narratives. This research will help to inform more effective engagement, communication and relationship building between diverse stakeholders including industry and media.
The project aims to examine media framing of geothermal energy, its influence on public perceptions and relationship to geothermal energy project outcomes. Using a mixed-methods approach, it will conduct an analysis of image and headline media content at national and local levels over time, employing qualitative content analysis and interviews with media professionals and stakeholders.