Media framing of CCUS between 2020-2025
Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies are expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing the economy. However, successful implementation depends on public perception and acceptance. Such aspects are influenced by how media publications shape the conversation about technologies. By analyzing media, the public's perception of a technology can be investigated. This study examines the media framing of CCUS, CCU, and CCS in three regions: the Middle East, North America, and Europe. It compares differences in media framing between regions, as well as differences in framing between carbon capture and utilization.
Skye Tutton, master student Energy and Environmental Sciences, carried out this study as part of her master's degree commissioned by ESRIG and New Energy Coalition.
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This study analyses media coverage of CCUS technologies based on the SPEEDFramework (Socio-Political Evaluation of Energy Deployment). Key findings:
- Media framing of CCUS varies by region: in North America and Europe the picture is mixed, while in the Middle East the benefits are almost exclusively highlighted.
- The most common frameworks are environmental and economic. In North America and Europe, technical and legal aspects are also frequently mentioned.
- For example, in North American articles, economic skepticism prevails, with CCUS sometimes seen as an excuse for fossil fuel industries to emit more CO2.
- In articles from the Middle East, CCUS is often associated with the theme of the “circular economy” and the emphasis is more on the use aspect than in Europe and North America.
- In European and North American articles, CCUS is often used as a generic term to describe CCS, indicating a lack of media awareness of the broader range of technologies that CCUS encompasses.
The insights are particularly relevant for developing communication and participation strategies for future CCUS projects. The study also provides recommendations on the importance of clear and balanced communication with the public about the advantages and disadvantages of CCUS technologies.
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