Does Heat Exposure and Income Shape Climate Change Attitudes?

• In Event: 50620 - Section on Environmental Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 5: Environmental Exposures and Beliefs

Abstract

As climate change intensifies, its effects disproportionately impact low-income individuals, specifically as it relates to public health and economics. This study examines how living in a high-heat vulnerability area intersected with income impacts attitudes about climate change. Using CDC data on heat vulnerability and poverty, alongside a nationally representative survey on climate attitudes, we will employ an OLS regression to analyze the relationship between income, location, and climate attitudes. We predict a significantly significant relationship, where individuals facing greater heat exposure who are also low-income will have heightened climate awareness, and a better understanding of climate change as a whole. Findings may inform environmental justice initiatives and climate adaptation policies.

Authors

• Mackenzie Brooklyn Dybvik, New Mexico State University

• Heather Harper, New Mexico State University

• Thomas Anthony Frost, New Mexico State University