Abstract
The climate crisis is a critical challenge for human social, political, and economic systems and, at the same time, a profound communication crisis. Scholars observe the disconnect known as the climate change knowledge-action gap (Knutti 2019), where climate science communication still does not effectively reach broad audiences to leverage the needed action. Although much can be done to improve this communication (Moser, Dilling 2011), a “communications gap” often exists between scientists and the public (Hunter 2016). This study, aimed at addressing these communication-related gaps, seeks to understand climate scientists’ strategies for enhancing the science-society dialogue on climate change. The author conducted in-depth interviews with eight American and eight Polish climate scientists known for their communicative efforts. Participants shared their experiences, evaluated communication effectiveness, and offered recommendations. Based on the findings, the author proposes a communication model that includes “trusted intermediaries”: societal actors who help bridge the gap between scientists and the public. These intermediaries support, rather than replace, scientists, helping translate complex information and foster a stronger connection with the general public. Trusted intermediaries acting as liaisons between academia and the public may answer one of the most pressing problems of scientific communication on climate change, namely the lack of sufficient numbers of scientists involved and the lack of institutional support for science communication. The paper outlines the training efforts undertaken in Poland to engage new climate communicators to support the voices of scientists and thus take on the role of trusted intermediaries in climate communication.
Presenters
Jagoda MytychAssistant Professor, Management and Social Communication, Jagiellonian University, Poland
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Sustainable Development for a Dynamic Planet: Lessons, Priorities, and Solutions
KEYWORDS
Science Communication, Climate Scientists, Climate Change Communication, Knowledge-Action Gap, Trusted Intermediaries, Science Communication Effectiveness
