How Credible Is Our Science: Public Perception of Climate Change in Alaska

Understanding public attitudes towards climate change is critical to promoting climate and marine literacy.  Over the past three years, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) has begun to document public perceptions of climate change, surveying different population segments in Alaska.  The 2011 survey involved 211 respondents drawn from four populations: ASLC staff, ASLC visitors, Seward residents and Anchorage residents.  The survey was based on Yale University’s Project on Climate Change Communication, but with a specific focus on climate impacts on Alaska’s marine ecosystems.  The results indicate that 78% of the public perceive scientists as the most trusted source for information relating to climate change.  In most cases, the public does not appear to understand how climate change is impacting Alaska, specifically marine wildlife.  A majority of people, 69%, are concerned that climate change will impact their life, but lack adequate education relating to its impacts.  This indicates that climate change science has not been effectively communicated to the public in Alaska.  The positive news is that 82% of respondents wish to learn more and are open to new education opportunities.  These results will be used to track the effectiveness of ongoing climate change education efforts.  Results will also assist educators and scientists in improving climate education programs, practices and materials.