Centre aims to tackle misinformation & enhance public understanding of science
Airfield Estate will host a pilot all-Ireland Science Media Centre (SMC). The global SMC network and Airfield Estate are collaborating on this pioneering initiative which aims to combat misinformation in news media and foster a deeper public understanding of science.
Opening this week, the SMC will operate as a pilot for a year testing whether an SMC in Ireland could act as vital resource for Irish journalists. The pilot will proactively offer access to commentary from top quality scientists and to accurate scientific data on topical issues such as climate change, food production, and vaccines.
Fiona Fox, Chief Executive of SMC UK, highlighted the necessity of such a centre in Ireland, stating, “Our experience in the Science Media Centre (SMC) UK and in SMCs around the world underscores the importance of scientists engaging in media to improve science reporting. Misinformation is on the rise, and in a world saturated with soundbites and clickbait, it’s crucial to support accurate reporting and empower the public and policy makers to discern trusted sources”.
Claire Mac Evilly, CEO of Airfield Estate, emphasised the significance of Airfield’s involvement, stating, “Our ambition is to be Dublin’s sustainable food hub and education is a cornerstone of this strategy. Hosting Science Media Centre Ireland aligns perfectly with our mission to inform the public through fact-based science and by setting a positive example. We’re excited to be at the forefront of this vital initiative, providing invaluable support to journalists and policy makers. The SMC will be a one stop shop connecting them with top scientific experts from all over the island.”
The objectives of Science Media Centre Ireland include:
- Tackling misinformation
- Enhancing public understanding of science
- Championing higher standards in science reporting and communication
- Improving science literacy in news media and the wider public
- Providing policymakers with evidence-based information on topical controversies through the news media
For further information on the SMC all-Ireland pilot, please contact Adam Murphy, SMC Ireland Senior Press Manager adam@sciencemediacentre.org
For further information on the Science Media Centre, please visit Website link: https://www.sciencemediacentre.org/ireland/