RD&D-Programme 2004 - SKB

• Public opinion and attitudes – psychosocial effects.
• Global changes.
A general description of the four chosen research areas is provided below.
Socioeconomic impact
The purpose of research in the area of socioeconomic impact is to gain better knowledge and
understanding of how the local community’s economy and population structure is affected by
the establishment of a large new facility or activity. This knowledge can in turn make valuable
contributions to SKB’s, the concerned municipalities’ and other stakeholders’ assessments
of how the establishment of the deep repository might affect the community’s economy and
demographic development.
Socioeconomic impact includes both narrow economic aspects such as employment, industrial
establishment, entrepreneurial spirit, property values, municipal economy and tourism, and
broader socioeconomic effects such as travel to and from the community, in- and out-migration
to or from the community, and the community’s reputation and attractiveness.
Decision processes
The siting of the deep repository is a controversial issue in part because it involves a nuclear
activity and a time perspective that is impossible to comprehend. The issue has repercussions for
community planning, national energy policy and international research. By addressing political
questions of this special character, the research is attempting to lay the foundation for general
knowledge concerning decision processes in complex issues. This knowledge can in turn make
important contributions to the consultation procedure, studies, planning and decision-making.
SKB, the concerned municipalities and other stakeholders, such as the municipal inhabitants,
thereby stand to benefit from the research.
The actual nature of the decision process for a deep repository establishment is one thing, while
how it is perceived is another. Lessons can be learned from many Swedish and foreign studies
of decision processes, for example to what extent decisions are perceived to be legitimate, fair
and effective.
Public opinion and attitudes – psychosocial effects
Opinions and attitudes are highly changeable phenomena and are influenced by various forces,
as well as by personal characteristics. As phenomena they are therefore complex research
topics.
The establishment of the deep repository is furthermore a drawn-out process, involving different
actors in different phases. The purpose of research in this area is to study how opinions and
attitudes are formed and change during the various phases of the project. This knowledge can
make essential contributions to an understanding of the different actors’ decision-making and
to the conduct of consultations.
Opinions and attitudes are not just a reflection of decision-making, actual events and
communicated messages. Individual characteristics and perceptions of reality also play a role.
Deep-seated values and norms, group identification, perceived fears, anxiety about risks, and
self-interest are some examples of factors that also influence public opinion and attitudes. It is
therefore also important to shed light on the “symbolism” surrounding the deep repository and
its activities.
302 RD&D-Programme 2004