Perceptions of CO2 Report - Global CCS Institute

4 Qualitative investigationHistorically, lack of knowledge about CCS has led to methodological issues for CCS researchers,in that it is often difficult to assess attitudes towards a technology of which research participantshave little knowledge. As a result, some researchers are adopting methods that providerespondents with information about CCS at the time data is gathered (see e.g. Duan, 2010;Palmgren, et al., 2005).This project’s qualitative research component aimed to explore public perceptions of CO 2 andidentify common themes and attributes that would then inform the follow-up survey. An exploratoryprocess was used in the interviews and focus groups. In each of the three countries, 18 one-hourinterviews were conducted with participants from varied backgrounds (e.g., gender, age, educationlevel, etc.) to understand how individuals understood CO 2 . Interviews began with a series of openendedquestions regarding current knowledge and perceptions of CO 2 and CCS (as listed inAppendix A). Then, information was provided on CCS, and respondents were asked for theirthoughts on the different stages of the process. To manage potential bias in the information,scientists who are experts in the CCS field developed it through an internal review processincorporating social scientists and engineers. Next, the interviews investigated how perceptionsand understanding of CO 2 and CCS were influenced by the provision of different types ofinformation. After information sheets were provided on where CO 2 is naturally found; commercialcommodities that are in some way related to CO 2 ; and its properties, characteristics, and behaviourincluding during CCS, interviewees were asked whether the information had changed theirperceptions and understanding of CO 2 and CCS. Interview results were analysed for commonthemes, and the information was collated to inform the material for focus groups.Two focus groups were conducted in each country. The focus groups lasted approximately 2.5hours and comprised six to eight participants from varied backgrounds (e.g. gender, age,education level, etc.). During the focus groups, participants were presented with informationsheets on CCS and CO 2 ’s characteristics and properties that had been informed by the earlierinterviews. Afterwards, they completed brief questionnaires, discussed their perceptions of CCS,and explained whether they felt that the information was important for them when forming anopinion about CCS. Additional information was then presented on the consequences of CO 2phenomena; how CO 2 behaves in CCS; and what would happen if CO 2 were to leak from pipelinesor underground storage. Participants then discussed what effect this new information had on theirperceptions of CO 2 and CCS. Further details of the focus group design can be found in AppendixB.Significant qualitative findings from all three countries were listed and classified to make a draft ofthe survey questionnaire. The focus group material was analysed for recurring themes andapparent country differences.Understanding how individuals perceive carbon dioxide | 9