Author: M. A. Lamptey Hussein
(Communication Expert/Lecturer)
Understanding Environmental Communication:
Environmental communication is the process of translating complex scientific information into simple, understandable messages that encourage positive action.
It creates a vital link between scientists, government institutions, the media and ordinary citizens. An important aspect of environmental communication is risk communication—informing people about dangers such as floods, polluted water, poor air quality and other environmental threats, while providing practical measures to protect themselves.
The Media and Government Must Do More:
I respectfully call on the Minister of State responsible for Climate Change and Sustainability to spearhead a nationwide environmental awareness campaign.
Ghana needs more journalists who specialise in environmental reporting, just as we have specialists in politics, business and sports reporting. Environmental issues are increasingly affecting our daily lives and deserve sustained media attention.
I also wish to acknowledge my former lecturer, Prof. Andrews Ofori-Birikorang, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), whose teachings inspired my passion for communication, particularly environmental communication.
Why Environmental Communication Matters More Than Ever:
Scientific evidence shows that a warmer atmosphere can hold approximately seven per cent more moisture for every one-degree Celsius increase in temperature.
The result is more intense rainfall occurring within shorter periods. This changing climate reality means Ghana can no longer rely on traditional methods of communicating weather information.
Citizens need to understand why flooding occurs in places such as Accra. The causes include: Poor drainage systems; Building on waterways and wetlands;
Indiscriminate waste disposal; and
The growing effects of climate change.
When people understand the causes of flooding, they are more likely to support solutions such as improved urban planning, stricter enforcement of environmental laws and responsible personal behaviour.
The Way Forward: Effective environmental communication must become a national priority if Ghana is to reduce the loss of lives and property caused by rainstorms and floods.
1. Simplify and Localise Information
Technical jargon should be translated into simple, practical and action-oriented messages.
Communication should be delivered in local languages and through trusted community leaders such as chiefs, pastors, imams and assembly members.
2. Reach the Last Mile: Warning messages must reach everyone, including the elderly woman in Chorkor, the fisherman in Ada and the farmer in Garu.
Community radio stations, SMS alerts, information centres and town criers should all be used to ensure no one is left behind.
3. Talk With People, Not At Them:
Environmental communication should be a two-way process. Before the rainy season begins, authorities should engage communities and ask critical questions:
Which areas flood most often?
What support do residents need?
What local knowledge can help improve preparedness?
During emergencies, misinformation and rumours should be addressed quickly through trusted communication channels.
Trust grows when authorities listen as much as they speak:
4. Protect Nature to Protect Ourselves
A healthy environment remains one of our strongest defences against flooding.
Ghana must: Protect wetlands; Prevent construction on waterways;
Plant more trees; and
Preserve green spaces that absorb excess water.
When we destroy nature, we weaken our natural protection systems and increase our vulnerability to disasters.
Conclusion:
Brothers and sisters, climate change is real. Coastal communities are suffering. Accra is suffering. Tamale is suffering. Many other communities across Ghana are also facing growing environmental challenges.
Yet there is hope: Information is power. When environmental information is communicated clearly, quickly and in languages people understand, lives can be saved, homes protected and businesses preserved.
It is therefore time for Ghana to make environmental communication a national priority. The future safety of our communities may depend on it.
Source: Nationaltymes.com
