Future research directions to facilitate climate action and energy transitions

Abstract

The scientific literature on climate actions, generally, and energy transitions, specifically, places a high premium on rigor and attention-to-detail when communicating their findings. While this is necessary, it may not always be most readily accessible to diverse audiences. This perspective describes the authors’ opinions on balancing future research directions and communication strategies to increase acceptance of widespread climate action among policymakers and the public. We suggest four approaches to do so: (1) use of co-benefits to appeal to diverse audiences, (2) reducing polarization in discussions, (3) use of more optimistic tones, and (4) finding the right balance between quantitative findings and qualitative narratives.