Towards a Public Communication and Engagement Strategy for Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage Projects in Scotland

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to stimulate the design of effective engagement strategies between the public and proponents of CCS projects in Scotland. Engagement is the process of having an informed, two-way discussion as to whether a CCS project is appropriate in a particular locality and context. Successful engagement is not a guarantee that every project will go ahead. Projects may be rejected by publics even if they are technically viable, and establishing if this is the case early on would greatly speed the search for a suitable site. However if the reasons for a CCS project are sound, the plans carefully laid, and social conditions favourable, a good engagement strategy should greatly increase the chances of acceptance. Key steps towards public acceptance have been identified (Figure I). Whilst not every step will be necessary for every stakeholder, during an engagement campaign this is the likely minimum information which will be required.