Promoting urban air quality resilience through communication: A stakeholder needs mapping and prioritisation study informed by design thinking

Abstract

Air pollution (AP) poses significant global health risks and exacerbates socio-economic inequities, especially in urban contexts. This study mapped stakeholder needs and priorities for developing communication strategies to foster air quality (AQ) resilience, using Cork City, Ireland, as a case study. Employing a Design Thinking approach, the research involved consultations in the form of qualitative interviews and one focus group (n = 62), followed by a quantitative survey (n = 105) to prioritise identified needs. Stakeholders included, among others, residents, policymakers, health professionals, and academics. The needs assessment revealed two key areas related to enhancing communication functions, channels and formats, and addressing policy and systemic issues. Effective AQ communication must address public understanding of AP risks, empower adaptive behaviours, and mobilise civic engagement. Stakeholders emphasised the need for accessible, contextually relevant, and solution-oriented communication. Systemic needs encompassed enhancing local policies, infrastructure, and governance to support behavioural changes, such as reducing car dependence and promoting sustainable heating practices. Consultations revealed social, cultural, and infrastructural challenges to making AQ communication effective, and underscored the necessity of inclusive, participatory approaches. The need prioritisation results indicate that stakeholders value systemic improvements, such as increased urban green spaces and appropriate public transport infrastructure, alongside tailored communication strategies. This research underscores the importance of integrating communication with systemic interventions to enhance urban AQ resilience. The findings informed co-creation of actionable, equitable AQ communication strategies and contribute to broader debates on environmental sustainability and community resilience. Future work should extend participatory methodologies to diverse contexts and emphasize socio-ecological interactions for effective environmental communication.