Questioning Climate in Connecticut: An Exploratory Thematic Analysis of Questions for State Leaders

Abstract:

Understanding collective inquiry themes derived from public audiences can better inform educational, outreach, and engagement efforts for sustainability and climate action. This is especially true in the coastal resilience sphere, where climate change impacts are occurring and mitigation and adaptation efforts are already being implemented. In this presentation, we share findings from an exploratory thematic analysis of questions posed to state leaders during the Solve Climate by 2030 public event that was jointly hosted by Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut. The online webinar featured state leaders and was presented live on YouTube, where it remains available for continued viewing. Questions posed during, and following, the event indicate a plethora of perspectives and attitudes towards how climate action is advancing in the State of Connecticut. These questions are analyzed using a thematic analysis framework (after Braun and Clarke, 2006) that categorizes the main factors that shape public perspectives towards Connecticut state leadership on climate action. The themes arising from this research can be assimilated within state-level action to guide efforts to more meaningfully integrate public audiences into the climate narrative evolving in Connecticut, and the larger region of the Northeast United States.

Keywords: Climate Action, State Leadership. Public Engagement, Climate Governance

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