Does experiencing extreme events increase support for clean energy?
Summary
First-hand experience of an extreme weather event inspires support for a clean energy policy (in the form of willingness to pay more for electricity) — regardless of the person’s view on climate change or political affiliation. Wildfires and hurricanes (sudden, directly threatening events) spur the biggest bump in support, while drought and heat waves (slow-acting, cumulative events) make less of a difference.
This video summarises research from the University of Vermont and the University of Colorado.
Researcher Profile
