Connection is key when there's no planet B: The need to innovate environmental science communication with transdisciplinary approaches

Abstract

As anthropogenic damage to the environment continues worldwide, effective science communication has never been more important. Despite this there are numerous barriers between traditional science communication (e.g. journal articles to news media) and the goal of encouraging more sustainable behaviours. Connections between public groups, science communicators and the environment, are all key to overcome barriers in intergroup communication. It is vital science communication adapts with transdisciplinary approaches to become more effective in its purpose. As such training of environmental science communicators must change. This endeavour will be supported by the enrichment of academic institutions through becoming more active in expediting cooperation between STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) and HASS (humanities, arts and social science) disciplines. Modern dissemination of misinformation must be tackled with holistic approaches to bridge outgroups and enable the formation of trust.

Keywords: Communication; Public groups; Transdisciplinary approaches.