Study finds flood maps meant to alert about sea level rise may actually lower public concern.

A study from the University of California, Santa Barbara reveals that flood maps intended to raise awareness about sea level rise may instead be reducing people’s concern. Researchers found that participants from coastal areas in San Francisco, Norfolk, Ocean County, and Palm Beach showed less worry after viewing future flood maps. The study suggests that abstract maps fail to convey the real dangers effectively, and that more specific examples of how climate change impacts daily life are needed to enhance public concern.

November 10, 2024
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