Communicating Science

This past Tuesday TerreWEB members (including myself) had the opportunity to meet with two organizations that work on communicating climate change and environmental issues to the public.  The first of these organizations, Forest Ethics, is a nonprofit organization that is well known for their focus on protecting forests, including the Great Bear Rainforest.   Currently, much of the organization’s attention is focused on the Tar Sands and Sacred Headwaters campaigns.  To be effective in combating environmental degradation and climate change, Forest Ethics believes that they must transform “corporate adversaries into allies”.  These corporations have included Victoria’s Secret, Dell, and Office Depot.  According to their website, Forest Ethics has been successful in protecting 65 million acres of endangered forests.  Their method of communication uses scientific findings to persuade industry to change unsustainable practices.  For example, Canada’s Tar Sands is more carbon intensive then other fossil fuel sources, and Forest Ethics has worked with corporations such as 7^th Generation in announcing policies that restrict or eliminate the use of Tar Sands fuel in their transportation fleets.  Forest Ethics regularly uses social media (facebook, twitter, youtube, email) to spread their message and when necessary encourage followers to attend rallies and gatherings.

The other organization that the TerreWEB group met with was the Lower Mainland Region of the Ministry of Environment based in Surrey.  Employees from this office gave presentations on the work that they do (fisheries, wildlife, and ecosystems), and in some instances gave examples of what projects they have done (Sea to Sky Highway).

Since this organization is a funded and operated by the provincial government, communicating science is handled differently from Forest Ethics.  The MoE has certain limitations on what they’re allowed to share with the public, but effort is made to connect with stakeholders via the regional offices website.  Additionally, Freedom of Information requests can be made by citizens to be given access to information regarding environmental degradation and climate change.

Both organizations play a key role in the future of BC with regards to climate change.  Each handles communication differently, but with the same goal of informing the public about dangers and working towards responsible policies that protect the environment.