Dialogic and agonistic possibilities and limits of visual accounting: an action research of carbon emission reporting in Scottish city council

This study critically examines the dialogic and agonistic possibilities and limitations of visual reporting of carbon emissions. It draws empirically on action research conducted with a Scottish City Council, which aimed to enhance the public impact of carbon reporting through visual art. Theoretically, the analysis is informed by concepts of agonism and dialogism. The findings suggest that visual reporting in public spaces can enhance cognitive, emotional, and political engagement by capturing public attention and encouraging interaction and public assumption of responsibilities towards a greener city. However, it falls short of fostering a deeper dialogue and a meaningful agonistic approach.