Normative Basis for Climate-Related Civic Engagement by Residents of Lake Superior’s North Shore region

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of resident engagement in climate change using a survey of a sample of residents in Lake Superior’s North Shore region in Minnesota. We examine the influence of climate concern, responsibility, subjective norms and personal norms on civic engagement. Study findings indicate that climate concern, ascription of local responsibility, and subjective norms influence residents’ personal norms, or sense of personal obligation, which in turn positively predicts civic engagement. Study findings highlight the importance of norms as a motivator of climate-related engagement. Results point to the potential for engaging community members in climate-related activities by tapping feelings of personal obligation for climate change adaptation or mitigation.

Keywords:

• Civic engagement
• climate change
• environmental beliefs
• personal norm

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by the Minnesota Sea Grant, the National Sea Grant College Program, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the U.S. Department of Commerce, under award [NA14OAR4170080]. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NOAA, the Sea Grant College Program, or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Funding support was also provided by USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch project [229912].