From anti-science to environmental nihilism: the Fata Morgana of invasive species denialism

Invasive species denialism (ISD) is a controversial and hitherto underexplored topic, particularly with regard to its potential impacts on stakeholder engagement in support of invasive management policy. We examined how ISD framed within the Great Lakes community, as well excluding including those perceived denialists efforts. interviewed key informants region gain an understanding their framings ISD, focus groups allowing participants discuss exclusion inclusion stakeholders during process. discussions were organised into three framings: 1) denialism; 2) cynicism; 3) nihilism. Participants raised concerns about outright offered recommendations for mitigation proponents engagement. Our results have shown that better different crucial improve communication inform responses The newly defined cynicism nihilism demonstrate more targeted specific forms are needed outcomes.