Environmental Communication Research Trends (2019–2023)

Overview

This article explains the main insights from a systematic review of open access scientific production on environmental communication, covering 147 articles indexed in WoS and Scopus from 2019 to 2023. According to the research by Guerrero Gómez et al., there’s a growing interest in how environmental issues are communicated through media and digital platforms.

What is Environmental Communication?

Environmental communication refers to how information about environmental challenges is conveyed to the public. It combines scientific knowledge, cultural values, and media strategies to foster awareness and promote sustainability.

Why is it Important?

The main findings indicate that effective communication enhances public understanding of climate change, biodiversity loss, and other ecological crises. When tailored to platforms like social media or educational formats, it increases engagement and behavioral change.

Key Findings of the Study

Mixed Methods Dominate the Field

This article explains that the most common methodology was content analysis, often combined with interviews or surveys. Researchers used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to gain comprehensive insights.

Narratives and Participatory Tools

According to the research, storytelling, humor, comics, and participatory communication (e.g., podcasts, art) were frequently used to emotionally connect audiences to environmental topics.

Role of Media in Environmental Coverage

This study highlights how traditional media often simplify climate coverage, focusing on effects rather than causes. Researchers also found that framing techniques influenced public perception.

Power of Social Media Platforms

The research reveals that platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook serve as powerful tools for environmental education and activism. However, challenges like misinformation remain.

Research Techniques in Environmental Communication

Case Studies

Used to understand context-specific communication strategies (e.g., digital learning at home or online activism).

Interviews

Helped uncover perceptions among journalists, scientists, and corporate communicators.

Surveys

Measured the impact of character-based storytelling, hotel sustainability messaging, and public perception of climate info.

Focus Groups

Explored audience reactions to formats like infotainment or environmental gaming.

Systematic Reviews

Identified gaps in environmental pedagogy and the effectiveness of science communication.

What Are the Challenges?

• Overuse of technical jargon limits accessibility.

• Resistance to terms like “climate emergency” in favor of “climate change”.

• Media often lack depth in portraying root causes of environmental issues.

Q&A

What is the main goal of environmental communication?

To increase public understanding and encourage action towards sustainability by using accessible, engaging, and scientifically accurate messaging.

Why use mixed methods in research?

Combining qualitative and quantitative methods allows for a deeper, more holistic analysis of communication effectiveness.

Which platform is most effective for environmental education?

Studies highlight YouTube for its audiovisual power and TikTok for engaging younger audiences, but credibility and content quality are essential.

What role does humor play in environmental messages?

Humor helps audiences process difficult topics like climate change and can increase retention and emotional connection.