Insights into the public engagement of coastal geoscientists

Abstract

The scientific field of coastal geoscience and engineering addresses crucial issues such as coastal evolution, the impacts of sea level rise, and effective coastal management. These concerns have become increasingly relevant in the current global scenario marked by socio-demographic development along coastal areas facing the effects of climate change. Furthermore, communication by scientists/engineers in this field can contribute to informed participatory decision-making. The objectives of this study were to gain insights into the science engagement of coastal geoscientists and engineers by examining international science communication practices, target audiences, motivations, and barriers. An online questionnaire directed at geoscientists/engineers was used to collect socio-demographic data and experts’ perspectives and practices on this communication. The analysis of 133 valid responses, primarily from Europe, North America, and Oceania, revealed that nearly all participants (95 %) actively engage in public communication. For most analysed aspects, differences in opinion according to gender, age, and professional category were not significant. A preference was observed for direct interaction with audiences (e.g., lectures) over indirect ways of communicating (e.g., media), with a focus on coastal risk (75 %) and climate change impacts (69 %). The public sector (e.g., municipalities) and school students were the preferred audiences. These findings align with the prevalent altruistic motives pointed out by respondents: to engage with society (76 %) and to help citizens make informed decisions (68 %). While the present research provides valuable insights, further studies are necessary to delve deeper into the analysis and further enhance our understanding of this important interconnection between coastal experts and society.