Geothermal Energy And Public Engagement

The basic premise of this volume is that the role of society is crucial in shaping the future path of developments in the geothermal sector. This chapter discusses some of the ways in which the science and technology in this field might be aligned with societal values and needs on a path for a sustainable transition towards a low carbon energy future. This is done by briefly presenting potential conceptual frameworks for analysing the societal transition and by discussing some of the tools for public engagement. The chapter is divided into three sections and begins with comparing the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), prominent within the literature on business studies and management, with a recent approach termed Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI), of particular relevance for this volume because of the emphasis placed on societal involvement and public engagement in processes of innovation. The second section draws upon literature from social science and socio technical systems to discuss conceptual frameworks for public engagement and citizens' participation as increasingly important element in innovation processes in the energy sector. The third section discusses the diverse tools for public engagement that are currently available for public engagement and citizens' participation processes.