Understanding Climate Change

The majority of people believe global warming is happening, but many do not understand why.

According to an American national study conducted by researchers at Yale University found that only 57 % of the population know what the greenhouse effect is and only 45 % understand that carbon dioxide traps heat from the Earth’s surface. Americans recognize their limited understanding where only 1 in 10 say that they are “very well informed” about climate change, and 75 % say they would like to know more about climate change (Science Daily, 2010).

A survey conducted on the public understanding of climate change and global warming on residents in the south of England show a tendency for the public to detach themselves from the causes, impacts and responsibility for tackling climate change/global warming (Whitmarsh, 2009). The public lack individual engagement in tackling the issue of climate change by distancing themselves from the issue, despite understand it is happening (Sharples, 2010).

The complexity of the science behind climate change contributes to the public pushing the responsibility away. It is therefore thought-provoking that experts believe the information about climate change is sufficient and appropriate (Sharples, 2010). There is a need for a better communication pathway between the experts and the public.

It is essential for the climate community to take advantage of the opportunities in the social media when informing the public about climate change as the media heavily influences the public’s opinion on the topic. Events like 24 Hours of Reality are ideal in creating publicity and spreading knowledge about climate change.

The video below is an ideal example of a good way for scientists to inform the public about climate change. The information is communicated in a simple, fast technique contributing to making the concept of global warming easy for the public to grasp.

I believe a fast and improved adaptiation to social media is necessary for the scientific community to increase the public's awareness and engagement in the fight against climate change.