Abstract
Despite overwhelming scientific evidence on climate change, skepticism persists, influencing public resistance to policies and governmental inaction. This study analyzes survey data (doi.org/10.1038/s41597-024-04100-7) from 68 countries to explore public trust in scientists, sources of science information, emotional responses to climate change, and policy support. Findings indicate that while the public generally trusts scientists’ expertise and intelligence, concerns remain about their transparency and ethics. Trust in scientists is 23% higher than distrust and positively correlates with climate policy support (r = 0.30), whereas political conservatism is linked to lower trust (β = -0.0258, p < 0.001). Science communication plays a key role—TV/radio and news websites/apps are the most trusted sources, followed by social media. Regression analysis shows TV/radio increases trust by ~4%, while news websites/apps increase trust by 3.7%. Social media has a weaker effect (β = 0.00005, p > 0.05). Emotionally, anxiety and helplessness are felt 23% more than guilt and shame, reducing trust in government climate action. Public support is strongest for sustainable energy and environmental protection (25% higher than support for fuel taxes), while public transportation is supported 22% more than fuel taxes. Trust in government climate strategies is 7% lower than trust in science-based decision-making. Skepticism stems not from distrust in science, but doubts about government action. Addressing this requires bridging the trust gap between governments and scientists, improving science communication, and addressing public emotional concerns.
| Original language | American English |
|---|---|
| State | Published - Apr 18 2025 |
| Event | Lynn University 2025 Student Research Symposium - Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Library, Boca Raton, United States Duration: Apr 18 2025 → Apr 18 2025 |
Lynn University Events
| Lynn University Events | Lynn University 2025 Student Research Symposium |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United States |
| City | Boca Raton |
| Period | 4/18/25 → 4/18/25 |
Bibliographical note
Poster Presentation: Health and Social Sciences categoryFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Félix E. Rivera-Mariani
Authors' Contributions:
- Ms. Drons: contributed the original research idea, matched variables in the dataset for statistical analysis, interpreted the results, and developed the study's conclusions and future research.
- Dr. Rivera-Mariani: advised on the research concept and design, guided variable selection, deployed data analysis workflow, provided input on results interpretation and future research framing, mentored student through project.