Why communication skills are important for climate change researchers
Photo by Neil Palmer/CIAT. Creative Commons. 60 km from the site of the UN climate change talks in Doha, Indonesian (2012) scientist Daniel Murdiyarso and Qatar-based scientist Mohamad Khawlie explore Qatar's most important ecosystem - the mangroves. Doha, Qatar.
The big global climate change conference, COP27, is on the horizon. It’s happening in November.
To spark discussion in the run-up, Oxford HR asked various climate change experts (ranging from activists to climate change coaches) to share their perspectives on climate change and what they think COP27 needs to address.
I was fortunate to contribute my thoughts on the importance of good communication skills for climate change researchers.
My input is below. (To read the perspectives of the other climate change experts, check out the full article.)
Why are communication skills especially important when it comes to climate change?
The climate crisis continues to deepen, threatening the sustainability of life on our planet. We need climate change researchers who can communicate about their work, which can often seem abstract, in a way that is accessible for the public, government, and media. Clear communication that speaks to people at a human level can inform positive changes in behaviour and policy. Climate change is also an increasingly polarizing issue, making empathetic communication that builds trust and inspires cohesive action essential.
If you are a scientist looking to brush up on your communication skills, take a look at the science communication course I run with Dr. Tali Hoffman....
If you are a scientist looking to brush up on your communication skills, take a look at the science communication course I run with Dr. Tali Hoffman....
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Brendon Bosworth is a science communication trainer and the principal consultant at Human Element Communications. He runs the science communication course, Communicating Science for Impact with Dr Tali Hoffman.
