Sea level rise in the news media: a comparative analysis of presented threat and adaptation information in The Netherlands, the UK and Italy

In this article, we analyse how media in the Netherlands, Italy and the UK convey threat and adaptation information about sea level rise. In accordance with the extended parallel process model, in order for fear appeals to be efficient, it is critical for threat information to be accompanied by information about the actions that can be taken to help address the issue. To see whether this is the case in the media, we conduct a comparative media analysis of the framing on the impacts of sea level rise. We find that sea level rise is framed as an existential threat in the Netherlands, and a wide-ranging location-specific threat in Italian and UK media. Regarding adaptation, protection is discussed as the most viable option, whereas retreat is framed as the least viable option. The threats and adaptation options are generally discussed in separate news articles, which risks decreasing experiences of efficacy.