{"query_echo":{"q":"","filters":{"organization":["Center for Climate Change Communication"]},"warnings":[]},"total":{"value":241,"relation":"eq"},"page":7,"page_size":20,"self":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/api/v1/search?organization=center-for-climate-change-communication&page=7","next":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/api/v1/search?organization=center-for-climate-change-communication&page=8","stability":"beta","ai_marking":{"digital_source_type":{"uri":"http://cv.iptc.org/newscodes/digitalsourcetype/trainedAlgorithmicMedia","name":"Created using Generative AI"},"notice":"Summary and key insights are generated using artificial intelligence."},"results":[{"id":"commgmu-000171","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000171","title":"The Consensus Handbook","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"guide","language":"en","date_published":"2018-03","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Consensus_Handbook-1.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The document argues that while 97% of climate scientists agree that humans are causing global warming, a significant 'consensus gap' exists in public perception, largely driven by decades of deliberate misinformation campaigns. It identifies perceived consensus as a 'gateway belief' that influences support for climate policy and provides evidence-based communication strategies, such as 'weight-of-evidence' reporting and 'inoculation' against misinformation, to close this gap.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A synthesis of multiple research methods, including surveys and peer-reviewed paper analyses, indicates that the expert consensus on human-caused climate change is between 90% and 100%, with many studies converging on 97%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant discrepancy between actual scientific agreement and public perception; while the consensus is 97%, the public perceives it as approximately 67%, and only 13% of Americans know the consensus exceeds 90%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Perceived scientific consensus acts as a 'gateway belief,' meaning that a person's belief about the level of expert agreement influences their views on whether global warming is real, human-caused, and whether public action is necessary.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Misinformation campaigns have systematically targeted the scientific consensus since the 1990s, using techniques such as 'fake experts'—portraying non-experts as subject matter experts—and the 'magnified minority' fallacy to create a false impression of scientific disagreement.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"False-balance media coverage, which gives equal weight to mainstream scientists and contrarians, misleads the public into believing a 50:50 debate exists and lowers the perceived consensus.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Effective communication of the consensus is best achieved through simple, clear numeric statements (e.g., '97%') and visual aids like pie charts, rather than non-numeric phrases or complex debates.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Inoculation theory suggests that preemptively warning people about misinformation techniques and providing counter-arguments makes them more resistant to future misinformation than debunking after the fact.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000171#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change communication","climate change disinformation","climate policy"],"geography_discussed":["United States","United Kingdom"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["literature review","psychological analysis","communication guide"]},{"id":"commgmu-000156","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000156","title":"Climate Change in the American Mind","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-10","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Climate-Change-American-Mind-October-2017-min.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report documents an upward trend in American concern about global warming, with 71% believing it is happening and 47% feeling certain of it. While 54% attribute it to human activity, only 15% are aware of the high scientific consensus. Emotional responses are predominantly negative, with high levels of disgust and helplessness. Perceived risks are increasing, with 44% reporting personal experience of its effects and 42% believing people in the U.S. are being harmed 'right now.' Most Americans view global warming as an environmental or scientific issue and believe it is affecting U.S. weather, though confidence in the human ability to successfully reduce it remains very low at 5%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Public belief and certainty that global warming is occurring have increased; 71% of Americans think it is happening, and 47% are 'extremely' or 'very' sure, the latter being the highest level since November 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap between public perception and scientific consensus; while 54% believe global warming is mostly human-caused, only 15% realize that more than 90% of climate scientists share this conclusion.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Emotional responses to global warming are largely negative, with 22% of Americans being 'very worried'—the highest level since surveys began in 2008. Other prevalent emotions include disgust (55%) and helplessness (52%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Perceived personal and national risk is rising, with 44% of respondents stating they have personally experienced the effects of global warming and 42% believing people in the U.S. are being harmed 'right now.'","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans identify global warming primarily as an environmental (78%) and scientific (71%) issue, but less frequently as a moral (41%), national security (29%), or religious (9%) issue.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of Americans believe global warming is affecting U.S. weather (64%) and specifically believe it worsened 2017 events such as California heat waves (55%), hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria (54%), and western U.S. wildfires (52%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Confidence in the ability of humans to successfully reduce global warming is very low, with only 5% believing humans can and will do so successfully.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000156#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","extreme weather event","climate change communication"],"geography_discussed":["California","Arizona","Mexico City"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000178","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000178","title":"Politics & Global Warming","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-10","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Global-Warming-Policy-Politics-October-2017-min.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report finds that while a majority of US registered voters believe global warming is happening and human-caused, there is a significant political divide, particularly with conservative Republicans. Despite these divisions, there is broad cross-party support for various clean energy policies, such as renewable energy research and tax rebates for energy-efficient vehicles. However, support for more restrictive measures, like carbon taxes or strict emission limits on coal plants, is lower among conservative Republicans. The report also notes a gap between voters' willingness to advocate for climate policy and their actual engagement in such activities.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A majority of registered voters (72%) believe global warming is occurring, though this belief is significantly lower among conservative Republicans (37%) and has declined within the Republican party since the 2016 election.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"54% of registered voters believe human activities are the primary cause of global warming, with a stark contrast between liberal Democrats (83%) and conservative Republicans (21%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is broad support across political lines for several clean energy policies, including funding renewable energy research (87%), generating renewable energy on public land (86%), and providing tax rebates for energy-efficient vehicles or solar panels (83%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While 76% of registered voters support U.S. participation in the Paris Climate Agreement, 63% specifically oppose the decision by the United States to withdraw from it.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Most registered voters (74%) believe corporations and industry should do more to address global warming, a sentiment shared by majorities of Democrats, Independents, and Republicans.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of registered voters (62%) believe that protecting the environment improves economic growth and creates jobs, and 75% believe environmental protection is more important than economic growth when the two conflict.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is strong support (79%) for including the causes, consequences, and solutions of global warming in school curricula, though conservative Republicans are split on the issue.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap between the intention to act and actual behavior: 38% of registered voters say they would participate in a campaign to convince officials to take action, but only 12% have actually contacted an official in the past 12 months.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Support for the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) global warming budget is high, with 82% of registered voters believing it should be increased (54%) or kept the same (28%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000178#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","renewable energy","solar energy","wind power","carbon dioxide emissions","fossil fuel","carbon tax","Paris Agreement","environmental protection","climate education","climate policy"],"geography_discussed":["Alaska"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey","political analysis"]},{"id":"commgmu-000154","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000154","title":"Climate Change in the American Mind","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-05","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Climate-Change-American-Mind-May-2017.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The May 2017 survey indicates that 70% of Americans believe global warming is happening, with 58% attributing it primarily to human activities. While 59% believe it is affecting U.S. weather and 40% report personally experiencing its effects, most perceive it as a distant threat, primarily harming future generations and the global poor. Despite broad support (78%) for teaching climate change in schools, social engagement remains low, with 67% rarely or never discussing the topic with family and friends. Only 7% of respondents are optimistic that humans will successfully reduce global warming.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A strong majority of Americans believe global warming is occurring and is human-caused. Specifically, 70% think it is happening, and 58% understand that it is \"mostly human caused,\" which is the highest level recorded since the surveys began in November 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap between scientific consensus and public understanding; only 13% of Americans are aware that more than 90% of climate scientists are convinced that human-caused global warming is happening.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While 57% of Americans express at least some worry about global warming, only 17% are \"very worried.\"","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans increasingly perceive global warming as affecting the U.S., with 59% believing it affects U.S. weather and 40% stating they have personally experienced its effects, the highest level since 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Global warming is generally viewed as a distant threat. The highest levels of perceived harm are attributed to future generations (71%), plant and animal species (71%), and the Earth (70%), while fewer people believe it will harm themselves (43%) or their own family (47%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Public social engagement with the topic is low: 67% of Americans rarely or never discuss global warming with family and friends, and only 19% hear people they know talk about it at least once a month.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is strong public support for climate education, with 78% of Americans agreeing that schools should teach children about the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to global warming.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The primary motivation for reducing global warming is intergenerational, with 24% of Americans citing the desire to provide a better life for children and grandchildren as the most important reason.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Optimism regarding the ability to mitigate global warming is very low; only 7% believe humans can and will successfully reduce it, while 48% believe it is unclear if necessary actions will be taken.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A significant minority of Americans (39%) believe there is a 50% or higher chance that global warming will lead to human extinction.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000154#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change education"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000176","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000176","title":"Politics & Global Warming","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-05","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Global-Warming-Policy-Politics-May-2017-min.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report finds that while a majority of registered US voters believe global warming is happening and support various clean energy policies, there is a significant gap between their stated willingness to advocate for climate action and their actual behavior. Political affiliation strongly influences beliefs about the cause of global warming and the priority it should hold for government leaders, though broad support exists for renewable energy research and tax rebates for energy-efficient products.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A majority of registered voters (71%) believe global warming is occurring, with nearly all liberal Democrats (97%) agreeing, while fewer than half of conservative Republicans (42%) do.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Most registered voters (56%) attribute global warming primarily to human activities, though this belief is much lower among liberal/moderate Republicans (45%) and conservative Republicans (30%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is broad support for the U.S. reducing greenhouse gas emissions regardless of other countries' actions, held by 68% of all registered voters, including 89% of liberal Democrats and 47% of conservative Republicans.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Registered voters show high support for specific clean energy policies: 86% support funding research into solar and wind power, 84% support tax rebates for energy-efficient vehicles or solar panels, and 77% support regulating carbon dioxide as a pollutant.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of registered voters (70%) support a revenue-neutral carbon tax, where fossil fuel companies pay a tax used to reduce other taxes like income tax.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While 74% of registered voters believe corporations and industry should do more to address global warming, only 22% believe that citizens working together can significantly affect government action.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap between intent and action: 31% of registered voters say they would participate in a campaign to convince officials to take action, but only 12% have actually contacted an official in the past 12 months.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A vast majority of registered voters (78%) report that they have never been asked by anyone to contact elected officials regarding global warming.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Barriers to contacting officials include the belief that it would not make a difference (64%), not identifying as an activist (62%), not knowing which official to contact (52%), and not knowing what to say (51%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000176#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","greenhouse gas emissions","renewable energy","solar energy","wind power","carbon tax","energy efficiency","climate policy"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000128","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000128","title":"A 2017 National Survey of Broadcast Meteorologists: Initial Findings","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2017-02","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2017WeathercasterSurveyReport.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The 2017 survey of US broadcast meteorologists reveals a high consensus that climate change is occurring (95%), though views on its causes and the potential to avert future harm vary. While most weathercasters feel confident in their ability to report on climate change and believe their audiences are interested, many rely on social media and community events rather than on-air segments to share local impacts. The report also highlights the influence of news consultants on weather segments and the utility of the Climate Matters educational resource.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"There is a strong consensus among broadcast meteorologists that climate change is occurring, with 95% stating it is happening, though they are divided on the cause: 49% attribute it mostly or entirely to human activity, while 21% believe it is primarily or entirely due to natural events.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Weathercasters hold diverse views on the efficacy of mitigation and adaptation: only 17% believe a large amount or all additional climate change can be averted through worldwide mitigation, and 19% believe a large amount or all harm can be averted in the US through adaptation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Regarding local impacts, 62% of weathercasters believe their local climate has changed in the past 50 years. Among those, the most cited harmful impacts are harm to agriculture (50%), seasonal cycles (48%), and water resources (47%), while the most common benefit is milder seasons or more pleasant weather (42%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While 72% of weathercasters feel at least \"somewhat confident\" in reporting climate change, they often use non-broadcast channels to inform the community about local impacts; the most common channels are personal social media (49%), school visits (41%), and community events (39%), with on-air reporting following at 36%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"News consultants influence weather segments for 60% of weathercasters, primarily advising on presenting local weather impacts (92%) and using audience engagement tactics (90%), but rarely provide guidance on climate change reporting (only 3% were advised to discuss it and 3% advised not to).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The Climate Matters resource is used by 80% of the weathercasters who receive its materials. Users find the graphics very easy to use for social media (65%) and on-air (40%), and 91% of users are interested in online webinars about climate science and impacts.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000128#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change mitigation","climate change adaptation"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000155","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000155","title":"Climate Change in the American Mind","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-11","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Climate-Change-American-Mind-November-2016.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The November 2016 survey reveals that 70% of Americans believe global warming is happening, with 55% attributing it primarily to human activities. While 61% of respondents express worry and 60% believe it affects U.S. weather, the threat is largely perceived as distant, with a majority believing it will harm future generations and developing countries more than themselves. Public understanding of the scientific consensus remains low, and optimism regarding the ability of the U.S. Congress to pass ambitious legislation to reduce global warming is limited.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A significant majority of Americans believe global warming is occurring and that it is human-caused, with levels of belief reaching peaks not seen since 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a substantial gap between the actual scientific consensus on human-caused global warming and the American public's perception of that consensus.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Emotional responses to global warming are mixed; while a majority feel interested or hopeful, significant portions of the population also feel helpless, disgusted, or afraid.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans generally perceive global warming as a distant threat, prioritizing the harm it causes to future generations and the global poor over personal or local impact.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Despite believing that global warming affects U.S. weather, only a minority of Americans believe they are currently being harmed by it or have personally experienced its effects.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Public optimism regarding political action and the human capacity to successfully reduce global warming is very low.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans primarily conceptualize global warming as an environmental or scientific issue, with significantly lower percentages viewing it through moral, social justice, or religious lenses.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000155#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change communication","climate policy","environmental education","climate justice"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000177","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000177","title":"Politics & Global Warming","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-11","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Global-Warming-Policy-Politics-November-2016.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report finds broad support among US registered voters for international climate agreements, greenhouse gas emission reductions, and the transition to renewable energy. While political divisions exist, majorities across party lines support taxing or regulating pollution, funding renewable energy research, and investing in national infrastructure, particularly roads, bridges, and water systems.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A significant majority of US registered voters support the United States' participation in the Paris COP21 agreement to limit climate change, with 69% in favor and 13% opposed.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Two-thirds of registered voters (66%) believe the US should reduce its greenhouse gas emissions regardless of the actions of other countries.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is strong public demand for increased action on global warming from both the executive and legislative branches, with 62% wanting President-elect Trump and 63% wanting Congress to do more.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Voters show broad support for pollution control mechanisms; 78% support taxing, regulating, or using a combination of both to address global warming pollution, and 66% specifically support a revenue-neutral carbon tax.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of registered voters (70%) support strict carbon dioxide emission limits on existing coal-fired power plants, even if it results in higher electricity costs for consumers and companies.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"If a fossil fuel tax were implemented, voters prioritize using the revenue for clean energy development (81%), infrastructure improvements (79%), assisting displaced coal workers (73%), and paying down the national debt (67%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is high cross-party support for renewable energy policies, including funding research into solar and wind power (82%), providing tax rebates for energy-efficient vehicles or solar panels (80%), and generating renewable energy on public land (83%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Most registered voters (81%) believe the US should use more renewable energy in the future, with 61% stating this should begin immediately; conversely, 55% believe the US should use less fossil fuel.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of voters (51%) believe that transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy will improve economic growth and create new jobs, while only 27% believe it will reduce growth and cost jobs.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The Federal government is viewed as needing to prioritize global warming preparations for public water supplies (76%), agriculture (75%), public health (74%), and the electricity system (71%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-10","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is strong bipartisan support (69%) for major government investment in national infrastructure, with the highest priorities being roads, bridges, and highways (94%) and public water supply systems (92%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000177#insight-11","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","greenhouse gas emissions","Paris Agreement","carbon tax","coal-fired power station","renewable energy","solar energy","wind power","fossil fuel","energy transition","climate change adaptation","infrastructure investment","electrical grid","energy efficiency"],"geography_discussed":["Paris"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000060","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000060","title":"Most Americans say global warming is personally important to them, but don’t talk or hear about it much.","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"fact sheet","language":"en","date_published":"2016-09-29","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/climatesilence/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A March 2016 survey of 1,204 American adults reveals that while a majority of Americans consider global warming personally important and are interested in the issue, they rarely discuss it with family and friends or hear it mentioned by others and in the media.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A majority of Americans express interest in global warming, with 67% being either \"very\" (22%) or \"moderately\" (45%) interested, while 32% are \"not very\" or \"not at all\" interested.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Most Americans view global warming as personally important; 60% describe it as \"extremely\" (9%), \"very\" (17%), or \"moderately\" (35%) important, whereas 38% say it is \"not too\" or \"not at all\" important.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a low frequency of exposure to global warming in the media and social circles. Only 44% of Americans hear it discussed in the media at least once a month, and 68% hear people they know discuss it only \"several times a year\" or less often.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans rarely engage in personal discussions about global warming, with 68% reporting they \"rarely\" (36%) or \"never\" (32%) discuss it with family and friends, a trend that has increased slightly over eight years.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A \"spiral of silence\" exists where individuals who care about the issue still avoid discussing it. Specifically, 57% of those interested in global warming and 54% of those who think it is important \"rarely\" or \"never\" talk about it with family and friends.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000060#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change communication"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000013","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000013","title":"Global Warming, God and the End Times","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"fact sheet","language":"en","date_published":"2016-07-26","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/global-warming-god-and-the-end-times/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"A March 2016 survey of 1,204 American adults found that approximately one in seven believe God controls the climate or that global warming signals the 'end times,' with specific religious, political, and socioeconomic groups showing higher rates of these beliefs.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000013#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Approximately 16% of Americans believe that human-caused global warming is impossible because God controls the climate, with 7% stating this is definitely true and 9% stating it is probably true. This belief is most prevalent among Tea Party members (38%), Conservative Republicans (31%), and Evangelical and Born-Again Christians (30%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000013#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"One in seven Americans interpret global warming as a sign of the 'end times,' with 4% saying this is definitely the case and 10% saying it is probably so. This view is most common among Evangelical and Born-Again Christians (24%) and adults who have not completed high school (23%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000013#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"About 11% of the surveyed population believe that the approach of the end times removes the need to worry about global warming. This sentiment is most strongly held by Evangelicals and Born-Again Christians (26%) and Conservative Republicans (21%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000013#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Approximately 9% of Americans believe the apocalypse will occur within their own lifetime. This belief is most frequent among adults who have not completed high school (20%) and Evangelical and Born-Again Christians (19%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000013#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change communication"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000048","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000048","title":"Global Warming’s Six Americas and the Election 2016","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"fact sheet","language":"en","date_published":"2016-07-12","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/global-warmings-six-americas-and-the-election-2016/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The document analyzes the 'Six Americas' framework to show that while climate change is a top-tier voting issue only for the 'Alarmed' segment (17% of the population), candidates supporting climate action are more likely to attract the 'Concerned' and 'Cautious' groups. Conversely, only the 'Dismissive' group (10% of the population) is more likely to vote for a candidate who opposes climate action. The data, from a March 2016 survey of 1,204 adults, indicates that 45% of Americans fall into the most engaged segments (Alarmed and Concerned), while 21% are skeptical (Doubtful and Dismissive).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"As of March 2016, 45% of Americans are in the most engaged segments (Alarmed and Concerned), 34% are in the middle segments (Cautious and Disengaged), and 21% are in the skeptical segments (Doubtful and Dismissive).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Climate change and clean energy are critical voting priorities for the Alarmed segment, with over 80% stating these issues are very or extremely important, whereas they are the least important of 23 assessed issues for other segments.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Candidate preferences in the 2016 election correlate strongly with climate segments: 64% of the Alarmed prefer Hillary Clinton, while 61% of the Dismissive prefer Donald Trump.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Support for climate action generally benefits candidates among the Alarmed and Concerned, while only the Dismissive segment (54%) is more likely to vote for a candidate who opposes such action.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The Alarmed segment shows the highest willingness to engage in climate activism, with 32% either currently participating in or definitely intending to join a campaign to influence elected officials.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000048#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","environmental protection","climate change mitigation","climate change communication"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000215","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000215","title":"Promoting Community Involvement and Opinion Leadership in Protection of the Salt Marshes of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-07","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Pickering_Creek_Report_ALL_071116VF.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report evaluates the \"Salt Marsh Stories\" program's impact on four focal audiences: Audubon members, higher education students/faculty, and business and faith communities in Maryland's Eastern Shore. Baseline data shows that salt marshes and sea level rise are generally non-salient issues, with significant uncertainty regarding sea level rise. However, the experiential program—specifically the planting of native grasses—successfully increased place attachment, knowledge, and emotional engagement. The study identifies place attachment and affinity for nature as the strongest predictors of a participant's intent to communicate about these issues to others.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Salt marshes and sea level rise are not salient issues for most of the target audiences. Substantial portions of higher education, business, and faith communities report they are not knowledgeable about or do not think about salt marshes, and nearly half of these groups never discuss the topic.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is significant attitudinal uncertainty regarding sea level rise, which is notably higher than uncertainty regarding general climate change. Only 48% of baseline respondents are very or extremely sure that sea level rise is currently occurring along Maryland's coastlines.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Place attachment to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and a general affinity for nature are the most consistent and strongest predictors of an individual's involvement in the issue and their likelihood to act as a conservation communication leader.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The \"Salt Marsh Stories\" experiential program successfully increased participants' certainty and knowledge. Trip participants were more certain that sea level rise is occurring (74%) compared to the baseline survey (48%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Emotional engagement, particularly during the planting of native grasses, is strongly linked to a participant's intent to communicate about the salt marshes. The most influential emotions for this intent are feeling inspired, excited, motivated, entertained, and breathtaken.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Audubon members exhibit distinct characteristics compared to other audiences, including higher nature relatedness, more biospheric values, greater knowledge of salt marshes, and higher certainty regarding sea level rise.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The business community in Dorchester and Talbot counties is the least aware of sea level rise and the least convinced of its local relevance, despite being among the groups most at risk due to their proximity to low-lying coastal lands.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000215#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["sea level rise","climate change communication","environmental education"],"geography_discussed":["Dorchester County","Talbot County"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["audience analysis","program evaluation","behavioral study"]},{"id":"commgmu-000083","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000083","title":"change in the American mind: March, 2016","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"fact sheet","language":"en","date_published":"2016-06-02","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/ccammarch2016/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The March 2016 survey indicates that 70% of Americans believe global warming is happening, with an increase in the proportion of people who are 'very worried' and perceive it as a current or future threat to themselves and others. While 53% attribute global warming to human causes, only 11% are aware of the scientific consensus. There is broad support for greenhouse gas emission reductions in the U.S. and for teaching children about global warming, though confidence in the U.S. Congress's ability to pass necessary legislation remains low at 37%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Public belief that global warming is occurring has risen to 70%, an increase of seven percent since spring 2015, nearly reaching the peak of 71% recorded since November 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Worry regarding global warming is increasing, with 58% of Americans feeling at least 'somewhat worried,' driven by a five percent increase in those who are 'very worried' since spring 2015.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans increasingly perceive global warming as a threat, with higher percentages believing it will harm people in developing countries (63%), people in the U.S. (59%), future generations (70%), and themselves (41%). Additionally, 38% believe people in the U.S. are being harmed 'right now,' a record high since 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap between public perception and scientific consensus: only 11% of Americans understand that over 90% of climate scientists are convinced that human-caused global warming is happening.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of Americans (61%) believe the U.S. should reduce its greenhouse gas emissions regardless of other countries' actions, and 76% support teaching children about global warming in schools.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Confidence in political efficacy is low, with only 37% of Americans believing the public can convince the U.S. Congress to pass the legislation required to reduce global warming.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000083#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","greenhouse gas emissions","obsidian","climate change communication","climate policy","climate education"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000127","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000127","title":"The Health Benefits of the Clean Power Plan","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"guide","language":"en","date_published":"2016-06-01","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20160601-Affiliate-Toolkit-.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The document argues that transitioning from fossil fuel-based electric power to clean renewable energy is a public health imperative. It details how climate change exacerbates respiratory, cardiovascular, and mental health issues, and how the Clean Power Plan's goal to reduce carbon pollution by 32% below 2005 levels by 2030 will prevent thousands of premature deaths and asthma attacks. The toolkit provides clinicians with messaging and model letters to influence state policymakers, while explicitly arguing against nuclear power due to radiation risks and waste management failures.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The EPA's Clean Power Plan aims to reduce carbon pollution from the power sector to 32 percent below 2005 levels by 2030, which is expected to yield significant health co-benefits.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"By 2030, the reduction in ozone and particle pollution resulting from the Clean Power Plan is estimated to prevent 1,500-3,600 premature deaths, 90,000 childhood asthma attacks, 180-1,700 heart attacks, and 1,700 hospital admissions annually, with a total economic value of $34-54 billion.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Climate change acts as a health threat by intensifying existing conditions like COPD and asthma and introducing new threats such as the spread of vector-borne diseases, with vulnerable populations including the elderly, children under 4, and those with low socioeconomic status.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Extreme heat is identified as the leading cause of weather-related death in the U.S., and its impact is amplified in cities through the \"Urban Heat Island\" effect, where concrete and asphalt cause temperatures to be 1-6 degrees Fahrenheit higher than surrounding areas.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The document argues that nuclear power is not a safe alternative due to the risk of radiation exposure—which can cause cancers and birth defects—and the lack of a permanent waste repository after the cancellation of the Yucca Mountain site in Nevada.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Investment in clean renewable energy provides a high return on health spending, with the EPA estimating that every $1 spent on clean renewable energy saves $4-7 in medical care.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000127#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["carbon dioxide emissions","greenhouse gas emissions","Clean Power Plan","renewable energy","energy efficiency","air pollution","particulates","effects of climate change on human health","extreme heat","urban heat island","vector-borne disease","sea level rise","wildfire","nuclear power","climate finance"],"geography_discussed":["World","Nevada","Japan","Ukraine","Belarus","Syria","Australia","India","Bangladesh","Thailand"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["policy guide","health impact assessment"]},{"id":"commgmu-000006","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000006","title":"Key Findings of a National Medical Association Physician Survey","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-04-27","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/key-findings-of-a-national-medical-association-physician-survey/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report details a 2014 survey of 284 African American physicians from the National Medical Association across 33 states, focusing on the health impacts of climate change.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000006#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A survey conducted in March and May 2014 among members of the National Medical Association (NMA) received responses from 284 members across 33 states, representing a 30% response rate.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000006#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The survey aimed to evaluate the experiences of physicians regarding the health impacts of climate change and their views on how to manage the problem.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000006#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["effects of climate change on human health"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000004","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000004","title":"Politics and Global Warming","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-04-20","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/politics-and-gw-fall-2015/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report finds that while Democrats are generally more convinced of human-caused global warming than Republicans, liberal and moderate Republicans often align with the mainstream public and moderate Democrats. A significant majority of registered voters support various climate policies, including renewable energy research, tax rebates for energy efficiency, and carbon dioxide regulation, though conservative Republicans remain a distinct outlier in their skepticism and opposition to these measures.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"There is a significant divide within the Republican party; liberal and moderate Republicans often share views with moderate or conservative Democrats, whereas conservative Republicans' perspectives are distinctly different from the rest of the American public.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A majority of registered voters (68%) believe global warming is occurring, and 52% believe it is primarily caused by human activities. Support for the reality of global warming is highest among liberal Democrats (92%) and lowest among conservative Republicans (43%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"American registered voters generally underestimate the level of scientific consensus on climate change, with a median estimate of 59% of scientists being convinced of human-caused global warming, compared to an actual consensus of 97%.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Broad support exists among registered voters for several climate-related policies: 84% support more renewable energy research, 80% support tax rebates for energy-efficient vehicles or solar panels, 74% support regulating carbon dioxide as a pollutant, and 66% support a carbon tax on fossil fuel companies used to reduce other taxes.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Regarding the 21st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, 62% of Americans viewed reaching an agreement to limit global warming as moderately or more important, though this support dropped to 36% among conservative Republicans.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000004#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","renewable energy","solar energy","wind power","carbon tax","energy efficiency","community engagement","climate policy"],"geography_discussed":["People's Republic of China","India","Brazil","England","Germany","Japan","Paris"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000152","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000152","title":"Climate Change in the American Mind","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-03","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Climate-Change-American-Mind-March-2016-FINAL.compressed.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report finds that 70% of Americans believe global warming is happening, though only 53% believe it is mostly human-caused and 11% are aware of the strong scientific consensus. While 58% express worry, few are 'very worried,' and many perceive the threat as distant, though perceptions of immediate harm in the U.S. have reached a record high of 38%. There is strong public support for corporate and individual action, as well as for teaching climate change in schools, but low confidence in the U.S. Congress's ability to pass necessary legislation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"A significant majority of Americans believe global warming is occurring, with 70% stating it is happening and 11% stating it is not. This level of belief is near its highest point since November 2008.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a gap between public perception and scientific consensus regarding the cause of global warming; only 53% of Americans believe it is mostly human-caused, and only 11% are aware that over 90% of climate scientists agree on this point.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While 58% of Americans report being at least 'somewhat worried' about global warming, only 16% are 'very worried.' Emotional responses are mixed, with 67% feeling 'interested,' while 49% feel 'helpless' and 48% feel 'hopeful.'","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Perceptions of immediate harm in the U.S. have increased to a record high of 38%, though most Americans still view global warming as a more distant threat, particularly to plant and animal species (71%) and future generations (70%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans believe that corporations, industry (71%), and citizens (66%) should do more to address global warming. There is also majority support for the U.S. Congress (60%) and the U.S. reducing its own greenhouse gas emissions regardless of other countries' actions (61%).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is strong support for climate education in schools, with 76% of Americans supporting the teaching of global warming's causes, consequences, and solutions to children.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Public confidence in legislative action is low; only 37% of Americans believe the public can convince the U.S. Congress to pass the legislation needed to reduce global warming.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Americans primarily conceptualize global warming as an environmental (68%), scientific (59%), agricultural (55%), or severe weather (54%) issue, while fewer see it as a moral (24%) or national security (18%) issue.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000152#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change communication","greenhouse gas emissions","climate education","climate policy"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["public opinion survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000097","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000097","title":"The Role of Collective Efficacy in Climate Change Adaptation in India","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"research paper","language":"en","date_published":"2016-01-30","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/the-role-of-collective-effixcacy-in-climate-change-in-india/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The research identifies a positive correlation between collective efficacy and climate change adaptation in India, specifically regarding water scarcity. Findings indicate that individuals with strong collective efficacy beliefs are more likely to engage in community water supply activities, and that community-level collective efficacy is positively associated with self-reported adaptation responses.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000097#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"Individuals with strong collective efficacy beliefs are more likely to participate in community activities to ensure adequate water supplies, and this effect is more pronounced in communities that already possess high levels of community collective efficacy.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000097#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a positive association between community collective efficacy and the self-reported adaptation responses of the community.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000097#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Public education campaigns that focus on increasing collective efficacy beliefs have the potential to increase adaptive capacity.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000097#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change adaptation","adaptive capacity"],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["quantitative analysis","survey research"]},{"id":"commgmu-000028","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000028","title":"A 2016 National Study of Broadcast Meteorologists","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016-01-01","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/all/a-2016-national-study-of-broadcast-meteorologists/","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report details the methodology and scope of the fourth national survey of U.S. broadcast meteorologists, conducted in 2016. The survey aimed to explore views on climate change and day-to-day professional activities, including social media use and the influence of news consultants. Out of 2,033 professionals surveyed across 49 U.S. states, 646 participated, representing a 32% participation rate.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000028#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The 2016 survey expanded its scope beyond climate change reporting to investigate the daily activities of broadcast meteorologists, specifically looking at the priority of forecasting versus educational activities, the use of social media and outdoor activity forecasts, and the impact of news consultants on weather segments.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000028#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":[],"geography_discussed":[],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["survey"]},{"id":"commgmu-000125","url":"https://climateinsightsdirectory.org/document/commgmu-000125","title":"Faith, Morality and the Environment: Portraits of Global Warming's Six Americas","publisher":{"name":"Center for Climate Change Communication","organization":"center-for-climate-change-communication"},"document_type":"report","language":"en","date_published":"2016","source_url":"https://climatecommunication.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2016-Faith_Morality_Six_Americas.pdf","generator":"Climate Insights Directory","generated_fields":["summary","key_insights","climate_tags","geography_discussed","analysis_type"],"summary":{"text":"The report analyzes 'Global Warming's Six Americas'—the Alarmed, Concerned, Cautious, Disengaged, Doubtful, and Dismissive—to determine if moral appeals from religious leaders could engage those currently unconcerned about climate change. It finds that while most Americans value caring for the poor and the environment, few outside the Alarmed and Concerned segments currently view global warming as a moral issue or understand its link to poverty. However, a widespread belief in human stewardship of nature and a general preference for religious over scientific explanations among less-engaged groups suggest that moral framing may be an effective communication strategy.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#summary","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},"key_insights":[{"text":"The American public is divided into six segments based on their views of global warming: the Alarmed, Concerned, Cautious, Disengaged, Doubtful, and Dismissive. These groups range from those firmly convinced the threat is real and human-caused to those who believe it is a scientific hoax.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-1","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Religiosity and spirituality are common across all segments, though the Alarmed are the least likely to describe themselves as religious (36%) and the Dismissive are the most likely (68% very or moderately religious).","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-2","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"There is a significant gap in how different segments perceive the moral dimension of climate change. In spring 2015, majorities of the Alarmed (82%) and Concerned (58%) viewed it as a moral issue, while less than a quarter of the Cautious, Disengaged, Doubtful, and Dismissive did so.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-3","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"Most Americans do not currently link their core moral values to their views on global warming. Forty percent of the total population say their feelings reflect their core moral values only \"slightly\" or \"not at all.\"","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-4","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"While most Americans across all segments believe caring for the poor, the environment, and future generations is important, understanding that reducing global warming helps these groups is uneven. Only the Alarmed have a majority (75%) who understand the link between global warming and poverty.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-5","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"A widespread belief in environmental stewardship exists across most segments. Except for the Dismissive, members believe it is a human responsibility to protect the Earth rather than simply using it for benefit.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-6","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"When scientific explanations conflict with religious or spiritual beliefs, the majority of Americans—specifically those in the Cautious, Disengaged, Doubtful, and Dismissive segments—are inclined to accept the religious explanation. Only the Alarmed prefer the scientific explanation.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-7","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The segments differ sharply in their social values: the Alarmed hold strong egalitarian values (e.g., wealth distribution and protection of the poor), whereas the Doubtful and Dismissive are much more individualistic, favoring freedom from government intervention.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-8","date_modified":"2026-10-23"},{"text":"The 'Concerned' segment (29% of the population) is identified as having the highest potential for increased engagement through moral framing, as they already recognize the reality of the threat but do not strongly link it to their core moral values.","ai_generated":true,"unit":"commgmu-000125#insight-9","date_modified":"2026-10-23"}],"climate_tags":["climate change","climate change communication","climate justice"],"geography_discussed":["Canada","Australia"],"frame_perspective":[],"analysis_type":["audience segmentation","public opinion survey","behavioral analysis"]}]}