Exploring channels and gaps in information dissemination and acquisition among energy scientists and the public: The southeast Asian context

PLoS One. 2022 Aug 29;17(8):e0273626. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273626. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

This study investigates the flow of energy-related information, which plays a vital role in promoting the public understanding and support for various energy sources. Through 12 focus group discussions with the public and energy experts, this study found that energy information flows from scientists to the public through both direct (e.g., roadshows, scientists' blogs) and indirect (via agents, e.g., school, news media) channels. However, communication gaps remain between scientists and the public. First, the public commonly obtains information from personal experience and the media but not directly from scientists. Second, while the public stressed the importance of mass media and social media, only a few experts reported writing news commentaries or making social media posts about energy. Third, while scientists emphasize their relationships with the government and other agencies in disseminating information, the public shows relatively weak trust in these agencies. Implications are made for future research and public communication on energy issues.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Blogging
  • Communication
  • Humans
  • Information Dissemination*
  • Mass Media
  • Social Media*

Grants and funding

Initials of the authors who received each award: Shirley S. Ho, Edson C. Tandoc Jr. Grant numbers awarded to each author: None The full name of each funder: National Research Foundation Singapore URL of each funder website: https://www.nrf.gov.sg/ Did the sponsors or funders play any role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript? No, the funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.