Having built a career around communicating sustainability issues in a visual and accessible way, Woo Qiyun discusses why her work is both an art and science—and why we should double down on support for science communications
The realm of sustainability is expansive, and there is a role for everyone to get involved. However, it often appears inscrutable, cloaked in a complex web of technical jargon and acronyms. This complexity can alienate those eager to engage but are intimidated by the seemingly high barrier to entry.
The Cop experience
A few months ago, I participated in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 28th Conference of Parties (Cop28), and I can attest to the challenge of navigating this technical terrain. Even as a repeat participant at the conference, articulating the significance of Cop28 to fellow Singaporeans back home remains challenging.
This was the second year Singapore had a pavilion at the event, which is a space for Singapore to not just showcase local initiatives on climate but also facilitate conversation, collaboration and cooperation on-location outside of formal negotiations. I participated as a partner of the pavilion, providing on-ground communications support for Cop28 happenings.
Read more: Cop28: What did young leaders in Asia really think about it?
I have been following the conferences from as early as 2018, and using my platform on The Weird and Wild, I’ve experimented with Instagram Lives, podcasts, videos, newsletters and comics in a bid to translate the deluge of information coming from the conference. This effort is inspired by the work of fellow environmentalist, Melissa Low, who has been a veteran observing the Cops and works tirelessly at making these conferences accessible to the public over the last few years.
Why? Because the decisions made at Cop28 hold global ramifications. Yet bridging the gap between the technical intricacies discussed at such conferences and public understanding is no easy feat. But it remains absolutely crucial that people understand what goes on at such major conferences. Which is why climate storytelling is key.
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