Psychological and socio-economic drivers of public acceptance for direct air capture and utilization technology

Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 requires the rapid adoption of innovative carbon removal technologies such as Direct Air Capture (DAC). However, the success of DAC deployment hinges not only on technological advancements but also on social acceptance. This study investigates the psychological and socio-economic determinants influencing public preferences for DAC-U (Direct Air Capture and Utilization) technology in Japan, utilizing a nationwide survey of 3139 respondents. Through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), we uncover that technology acceptance and environmental awareness are critical drivers of DAC-U preferences, with both technology acceptance and environmental awareness having a direct effect. Environmental awareness, meanwhile, indirectly amplifies DAC-U preferences by enhancing technology acceptance, highlighting a dual-pathway influence. The findings also reveal significant demographic and living condition factors, such as age, education, home ownership, and energy costs, shaping these preferences. Surprisingly, older individuals demonstrate higher technology acceptance but lower environmental awareness, reflecting diverse motivations across demographic groups. The study emphasizes tailored policy interventions to boost DAC-U adoption, including targeted subsidies, demonstration projects in high-energy-cost regions, and age-specific outreach strategies. By addressing both practical and environmental concerns, this research offers actionable insights into accelerating the integration of DAC-U into the carbon neutrality roadmap, providing a robust foundation for global sustainability efforts. • Public acceptance of DAC-U is shaped by psychological and socio-economic factors. •Technology acceptance drives DAC-U adoption more than environmental awareness. •Older individuals embrace DAC-U but lack strong environmental consciousness. •High energy costs and homeownership boost willingness to adopt DAC-U. •Raising environmental awareness can indirectly enhance DAC-U acceptance.