New paper on the impacts of arts, creative and cultural initiatives in fostering citizen engagement
Fascinating new paper from MaREI researchers at University College Cork on the impacts of arts, creative and cultural initiatives in fostering citizen engagement and advancing climate action.
The research, published in Current Research Environmental Sustainability, evaluated five distinct creative projects, each addressing critical themes such as sustainable agriculture, circular economy, repair culture, consumption habits, sea-level rise, biodiversity, and community-driven climate action. These community-based initiatives to enhance public participation in climate action were supported by the Creative Ireland Creative Climate Action Programme funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
The results showed that interactive, participatory-style creative mediums led by artists and practitioners, such as demonstrations, workshops, presentations, and discussion, effectively engaged participants across cognitive, emotional, and practical dimensions. Respondents reported an increased sense of self-efficacy and capacity to take achievable climate actions. Community-centred, peer-sharing formats emerged as trusted and valued opportunities for accessing relevant climate information, aiding constructive dialogue on complex topics. Artists’ unique perspectives and creative expressions generated positive energy and an openness to engage, renewing participants’ motivation to act. Findings suggest that targeted creative community events can significantly support climate policy efforts by fostering high-quality citizen engagement.
The research was undertaken by Prof Marguerite Nyhan’s team and Alexandra Revez at the Environmental Research Institute and MaREI Centre.
