Uncover how social media can be used to challenge the social license of fossil fuel organizations, questioning their legitimacy and credibility.
Fossil fuel companies hold immense power to change the climate, impact public perceptions, and influence policy. Revoking their social license to operate is one strategy by which the public may resist harm done by the industry. Social license is built upon establishing legitimacy, credibility, and trust, and is something that companies must earn from impacted communities to operate successfully. The present study uses a qualitative content analysis of tweets from fossil fuel organizations, as well as a selection of the replies to those posts, to examine how social media may be used to question these organizations’ social license. Results show that replies consistently voice doubts about legitimacy and credibility. Implications for using this strategy in public interest campaigns are discussed.
Highlights a Raleigh, NC nonprofit with a pay-what-you-can model cafe that is addressing local food insecurity. Examines the power of fostering a sense of community and dignity to build a more equitable community at the grassroots level.
Explores how creative arts (like puppetry) can be used to convey critical health messages, particularly young audiences. Offers valuable guidance for communicators seeking to develop innovative strategies for advancing public health goals.