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In this research, the highly controversial Carbon Capture and Storage technology is scrutinized from the cultural structures perspective. We argue that it is crucial to have a richer understanding of where public opinion on the technology comes from, and we develop a model that helps to understanding this. We use survey data provided by the Eurobarometer. Also, six cross-cultural dimensions developed by Hofstede are used. Lastly, two indices, Risk Acceptance and Self-Benefit, are used to design a regression model to argue that public acceptance and risk perception of the novel technology is not a simple case of information transfer and knowledge dissemination. We provide a framework for analysts and policy makers who wish to understand why and how societies and social actors challenge and contest the technology.

According to EU goals and the Paris Agreement, an urgent need exists for reducing CO2 emissions while still securing energy supply. Thus, the timely deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS) is seemingly unavoidable, especially for the cement and steel industries. However, diverse perceptions of CCS among stakeholders such as experts, politicians, and laypeople exist that could hinder the deployment of the technology. Hence, it is worthwhile to recognise these diverse perceptions and their roots. In the studies on risk perceptions, the emphasis has been mostly on the public, as well as factors that influence the public, such as knowledge dissemination and trust. Although these are crucial elements, they are not enough to explain the complexity of risk perceptions. In contrast to the mainstream research, this paper hypothesises that both laypeople and experts are affected by common cultural denominators, therefore, might have similar patterns of risk perceptions. This research suggests a framework that explains the role of societal culture in risk governance, arguing that thrifty, uncertainty avoidant, hierarchical societies tend to have a higher risk perception of CCS. This study is based on a synthesis of the earlier research, an extensive literature review, and an analysis of interviews data.