Communication strategies for resolving environmental issues

Abstract

The inclusive nature of current environmental debate and its potential for affecting this country for the next 20 years make it a natural subject for analysis by communication critics. Using Joslyn's theory of “political relevance in public discourse,” the environmental controversy is examined for its effects on the state (its political relevance) and the audience (the public). At the heart of the controversy is the deeply embedded public tradition of distrust in government and industry (credibility gap). Explanations for the existence of this gap are explored and strategies for its elimination are enumerated.

Key words:

• Communications strategies
• environmental issues
• public relevance
• political relevance
• credibility gap