Climate Literacy: Obstacles to the Development and Spread of Climate Literacy

Abstract

The focus of this paper is the relation between global warming and climate change, as the biggest problems of modern civilization, and the development of climate literacy, as one of the major prerequisites and tools for conquering this problem. The topic of climate literacy is being introduced in formal and informal education all over the world. As it is still in its preliminary, introductory phase, we do not have enough data to discuss its impacts in practice.
A compelling definition of climate literacy, which we consider useful for its future practice, is as follows: “A climate-literate person: a) understands the essential principles of Earth’s climate system; b) knows how to assess scientifically credible information about climate; c) communicates about climate and climate change in a meaningful way; and d) is able to make informed and responsible decisions with regard to actions that may affect climate” (U. S. Climate Change Science Program, 2009). According to our assumptions, climate literacy of modern civilization is very low. We have no empirical research on which to base our assumptions as there are almost no research conducted on this topic. However, systemic changes to the worse with regards to global warming can serve as an indirect indication. Climate literacy of modern societies does not yet encourage significant technological, organisational and social changes towards the reduction of greenhouse gases.