Communication of extreme events: adelphi analyses how it can be done

The Federal Environment Agency has commissioned adelphi to analyse approaches and essential requirements for the communication of extreme events, as these are being intensified by climate change. The analysis was instigated by the German Federal Government's aim of promoting individual precautions against the risks of climate change, as outlined in its "Adaptation Action Plan".

The portrayal of extreme weather and climate events in the media is usually dramatic, yet nonetheless close to the reality. Uprooted trees, flooded roads and failed crops have become familiar symbols in the communication of climate catastrophes. Texts on the subject describe insurance losses amounting to billions, though far too rarely report on precautionary measures such as floodwalls or efficient irrigation. Yet psychological research concerning natural hazards shows that catastrophe scenes tend to engender a defensive attitude, while portraying actual precautionary measures has a motivational effect.

In the light of these findings, adelphi is working together with project partners on a media response analysis that examines the media portrayal to date of extreme events. Selected target groups that are particularly affected are to be analysed in order to test the effectiveness of communication products developed in the project. adelphi is also producing two further campaigns to initiate individual precautions, and by 2015 will compile general handouts on the appropriate communication of extreme events.

For further information:
http://www.adelphi.de/de…