Talking about the climate

Talking about the climate – seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges with strategic science communication
When talking about climate change, many factors come into play – including the flood of information available and the different ways people search for and use this information; people’s perception of climate change in particular as well as science in general; and what is currently being discussed in society and in their social environment. Both global as well as Austrian surveys show that the majority of respondents want scientists to communicate with the public about science. And in general people trust in science. However, the spread of misinformation and disinformation, the politicization of climate change and the emergence of science-related populism call into question the epistemic authority of science and scientists. In that way, scientists need a solid science communication strategy to deal with those challenges and to fulfill their responsibility as trustworthy persons. 
This presentation will outline the steps that need to be taken when developing a science communication strategy, which aspects should be considered and which tricks can help to get the messages across.

Hildrun Walter is researcher in science communication at the Center for Society, Science and Communication – die 7. Fakultät – at the University of Graz since 2019. Her research focuses on the evaluation of science communication strategies and formats, especially with regard to emotional responses and the emergence and development of interest. She is interested in how open science practices and participatory approaches in research can influence the societal perception of science.