Integrating Science Communication into Spain’s Atmospheric products: Insights from RESPIRE and CAMS-NCP

Effective science communication is a central component of two major atmospheric initiatives in Spain: the “high-Resolution air Emissions Systems to suPport modellIng and monitoRing Efforts” (RESPIRE) and the Spanish component of the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service – National Collaboration Programme (CAMS-NCP). Both efforts, led collaboratively by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC) and the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET), demonstrate how communication can be embedded into the design, implementation and societal uptake of advanced environmental projects.

Within RESPIRE, communication is treated as a strategic pillar supporting the development of high-resolution emissions estimates for air quality modelling and greenhouse gas (GHG) monitoring in Spain. Activities range from intuitive digital interfaces and stakeholder workshops to targeted web updates, newsletters, and social media outreach. A central element is a user-centric web application that visualizes carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) fluxes. Together, these channels translate complex modelling outputs into actionable knowledge for public administrations, scientists, the private sector and citizens.

The CAMS-NCP communication strategy complements this by strengthening the visibility, understanding and uptake of CAMS products across national, regional and local levels. Building on the user network established during the first phase of the programme, Phase 2 implements a structured Communication and User Outreach Plan targeting policymakers, researchers, air quality planners, NGOs and citizens. Communication actions include regular updates to the CAMS-NCP website, coordinated press and social media campaigns, annual use case publications, and participation in national scientific and environmental events. Three annual CAMS User Forums and a final dissemination event provide spaces for technical dialogue, co-design and user feedback.

Across both initiatives, long-term communication experience reveals consistent lessons. Iterative co-creation with users increases uptake and ensures that tools respond to real needs. Trust is fostered through transparent messaging that acknowledges uncertainties while demonstrating methodological robustness. Effective communication requires not oversimplification but a strategic tailoring of information to specific decision contexts, from policy design and mitigation tracking to public awareness.

The challenges faced are also shared: conveying technically dense atmospheric information to non-experts, managing expectations about product capabilities, and maintaining visibility amid numerous parallel initiatives. Despite this, successes are significant. RESPIRE- has received international recognition from the Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System (IG3IS), an initiative of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), while CAMS-NCP continues to expand its user community and reinforce national alignment with European atmospheric services.

Together, RESPIRE and CAMS-NCP show how integrating communication into environmental science projects enhances societal impact. By combining advanced modelling with intentional, user-focused communication, both initiatives contribute to a more informed society and strengthen Spain’s capacity to address climate change and air quality challenges.