Media, Information and Framing Effects on Public Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Carbon Capture and Utilisation in Germany

ABSTRACT Public acceptance is critical for deploying carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) in industrial decarbonisation pathways. This study examines how media use and framing influence public knowledge and attitudes towards CCUs in Germany. Based on survey data from German‐speaking internet users (18–69), it analyses self‐reported familiarity across socio‐demographic groups and media patterns and assesses attitudes using a framing experiment. The results show low and socially stratified knowledge, alongside widespread uncertainty in evaluations. Framing effects are small but significant, with economic benefit framing having the most positive influence on perceptions. The findings highlight the need for targeted, knowledge‐oriented communication and for embedding CCUs within broader climate strategies to support informed public engagement and implementation.