A global problem for a global movement? An exploratory study of climate change perception by green groups' leaders from Quebec (Canada) and Costa Rica

This article examines the possible unifying effect of climate change on lea ders of green groups. The main goal is to identify ideological or North/Sou th differences in attitudes on key aspects of climate change among them. At titudinal data obtained with a standardized questionnaire administered to l eaders from Quebec and Costa Rica are used to generate a typology. Three ty pes of green orientations emerge: "ecologism,'' "mainstream environmentalis m," and "market environmentalism.'' General perceptions toward climate chan ge and specific opinions about policy options related to global warming are compared on the basis of these orientations and of national origin. Result s show that green leaders are divided on all measured attitudes concerning climate change. Most differences are explained by diversity in ideological orientation, mainly by divergent viewpoints held by ecologists. The differe nces based on national origin are mainly explained by contrasted contextual features between Quebec and Costa Rica. The results do not provide convinc ing evidence of cognitive solidarity in the green movement concerning clima te change.