From sharing research breakthroughs to building networks and engaging the public, social media has become an essential tool for marine researchers. But two new reports reveal a fundamental shift happening beneath the surface.

Are you sure your science communication actually is science communication?

Can generative AI models like ChatGPT write research summaries that laypeople, aka people without specialised research knowledge, can understand?

“Hey Sam, what should we do about X?”

It’s a question my clients (and those who aren’t) are asking me more and more.

In case you aren’t aware, X (or Twitter, as some prefer to call it still) has undergone significant changes since it was purchased by Elon Musk in 2022. Some have already found these changes unpalatable and have chosen to quit X. Others are seriously considering whether it is worth sticking around.

This is a big question, and the decision about whether to stay or go will depend on a variety of factors: your goals, your audience, and your values, to name just a few.

This is some really great news from a team of deaf scientists, deaf educators, and sign linguists at the University of Edinburgh. They’ve completed a project developing 400 environmental science signs for British Sign Language (BSL).

Are you familiar with Pint of Science? Science Cafe? Science on Tap?

Whatever you call them, the idea is simple - bring together a group of people in a pub, bar, cafe, or other location to hear about research from researchers while enjoying their favourite beverage. If research from Margaux Barrett and fellow researchers at Villanova University in the USA is anything to go by, event attendees are learning quite a bit.

Can scientists express their genuine fears and emotions about the climate crisis, the decline and destruction of nature, and the impacts on people and still be seen as credible, objective experts?

In mid-October 2024, South Africa welcomed the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC7). There were over 600 speakers from around the world discussing all things marine. Here’s a round-up of a few of my favourite communication talks.

Good environmental protection is underpinned by sound science. When public trust in science is down and misinformation rife, people may be less likely to support protective measures.