CON31 | [Workshop] The Science of Communicating Nature
[Workshop] The Science of Communicating Nature
Convener: Alex Bowmer | Co-convener: Marie Chambers
Sun, 14 Jun, 10:30–14:30|Room Sanada 1
Sun, 10:30
At On the Edge, we’re committed to reconnecting the public with the value and importance of biodiversity — as well as bringing about lasting, large-scale change to protect and re-establish species populations and ecosystems across the world. We believe entertainment-led storytelling is a crucial ally in the movement to reconnect people with nature and underdog species. Specifically, Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species, which represent the most unique, and threatened lineages on the planet. It has the capacity to make the natural world accessible and emotionally engaging, helping people see nature and change their perceptions of it.

Over the past 2 years, On the Edge has developed and delivered capacity building training and mentorship to over 3,000 conservationists & storytellers, teaching our approach to nature communication. Utilising our in-house expertise, this workshop will introduce the audience to the science of communicating nature, the role of storytelling in behaviour change, and how to challenge traditional approaches to science communication.

Duration: 90 mins. Optional session - Content creation challenge (teaching the tips to making engaging and impactful content) = 180 mins

Goals: Increase capacity of attendees to better communicate biodiversity, its threats and solutions; increase knowledge of science communication and behaviour change; challenge traditional approaches to conservation communication.

Outcomes: Increased awareness of the importance and influence of storytelling, its role in conservation, and how it can be utilised to influence behaviour change; practical skills that allow attendees to encourage them to think outside the box when communicating nature and its threats in their organisations.