Climate & Environment
Science Communication
Definition
Science communication is the practice of informing, engaging and involving non-specialist publics in scientific knowledge and its implications, spanning journalism, museums, education, public engagement and increasingly digital media. The field has moved from a "deficit model" (assuming opposition stems from ignorance) toward dialogue and participation models recognising that values, identity and trust shape how evidence is received.
References
Supports definition and framing.
Overview
How it is used
The discipline structures IPCC communication strategy, institutional outreach, misinformation counter-efforts, and training for researchers engaging media and policy.
Why it matters
Sustainability transitions are decided in public arenas, not laboratories; science communication is the contested bridge between evidence and action.