Warming up: The potential of community radio for climate change communication in Australia

Abstract

Climate change is already dramatically affecting the Australian landscape and way of life. These impacts are experienced locally, therefore responses must also be local, at least in part. There is an opportunity for Australia’s vibrant community radio sector to play a leading role in building community resilience around the effects of climate change. The importance of the sector in climate change communication is well-known: from emergency broadcasting during bushfires, to disaster preparedness and recovery work in cyclone season, as well as the activist role some stations take on local environmental issues. While important work is taking place, many stations lack the resources and the confidence to discuss how climate change is affecting their communities. This article details the findings of Warming Up, a pilot research project that aims to support community radio stations by amplifying local stories of climate change and building confidence and capacity to engage in meaningful community conversations.