Public Perception of CO 2 Pipelines

Abstract

Abstract To date, the transportation aspect has received little attention in social science research on the public perception of CCS. This study contributes to filling this gap by investigating the public perception of CO 2 pipelines among the German public. For this purpose, a representative survey was carried out and analysed with methods of descriptive and inductive statistics. The results showed that on average CO 2 pipelines are perceived neutrally by the general public in Germany. With respect to the acceptance of CO 2 pipelines close to one's home, the involvement of environmental organizations in the assessment of the safety and environmental compatibility of the pipeline and a convincing safety concept on the part of the pipeline operator were identified as likely to be more effective than other measures such as financial compensation or participation in the planning process. However, factual knowledge of pipelines, risk perceptions, general attitude and willingness to protest against a CO 2 pipeline close to one's home, as well as the level of agreement with factors for the acceptance of CO 2 pipelines, vary significantly according to gender, age and professional qualifications. The characteristics and perceptions of the citizens affected should therefore be taken into account for the siting of CO 2 infrastructure projects.