Press and Public Relations in Nature Conservation

Nature conservation is generally well-regarded, but when measures are implemented locally, they often lead to conflicts of interest and land use. To turn initial resistance into acceptance, or even support, an effective communication strategy is crucial. Many conservation projects depend on broad public acceptance. Only with local support can real benefits be achieved for everyone involved. So, what makes public relations in nature conservation effective?

Clear, respectful, and transparent communication is key to changing attitudes and behaviors. It's also important to define target groups and set clear communication goals. Once the intention behind engaging a specific audience is understood, the right approach to fostering acceptance can be identified. A range of tools is available, from information campaigns and environmental education to incentive programs and compensation schemes. It's important to share technical knowledge, but to also consider cultural and socio-economic factors. Approaches that integrate these aspects, communicated by credible and competent representatives without a lecturing tone, are most likely to succeed.

Sources

Brendle, U. (2002): Kommunikation und Naturschutz. Überlegungen zur Akzeptanzsteigerung des Naturschutzes. In: Erdmann, KH., Schell, C. (Hrsg.) Natur zwischen Wandel und Veränderung. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.

Dr. Hannah Sophia Weber, Fee Widderich, Heidrun Fammler (2020): Erfolgreiche Kommunikation von Naturschutzvorhaben. Ein Handbuch für Kommunizierende im Naturschutz. Baltic Environmental Forum Deutschland e. V., Hamburg www.bef-de.org.