Seeking Common Ground: An Exploration of Conflicting Views on Climate Change in Saskatchewan

In the province of Saskatchewan, political rhetoric and deep economic dependency on non-renewable resources have contributed to a divided public opinion of both the presence and urgency of climate change. This clash of opposing views and beliefs on climate change has fostered an us-versus-them mentality that obfuscates efforts to effectively communicate both the impacts of climate change and the potential solutions. Narratives advanced by environmentally conscious individuals and organizations in Saskatchewan often fail to resonate across the ideological divide, which limits the efficacy of cultivating pro-environmental attitudes and behaviours across the province. To foster a shared pro-environmental outcome, new ways of thinking are needed to bridge the diverse meanings, experiences, and contexts that shape how people understand and respond to climate change. This study explores the potential for common ground among Saskatchewan people who hold conflicting views and beliefs about climate change and considers how this could support both the reduction of polarization and the creation of equitable pathways for meaningful climate action, in ways that honour a multitude of lived experiences. Central findings reveal tensions in how participants perceive climate challenges and possible responses. However, the presence of underlying shared values—such as sense of place, a desire for personal and economic wellbeing, and strong family and community ties—suggests meaningful opportunities to strategically frame climate change communication in ways that bridge divides and encourage transformative collective action in the land of the living skies.

Author dc:creator

• Van Buskirk, Megan

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Takach, Geo

• School of environment and sustainability

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/IR-20519

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28956