Abstract

Presenting scientific information alone may not convert skeptics into believers about climate change. However, many of those already concerned about the crisis could use a better understanding of its mechanisms. In fact, many of the people who are most interested in addressing the social and political aspects of climate change may have little familiarity with conventional scientific communications. Clear and understandable information can help this audience prioritize their conservation efforts, gain confidence in their opinions, and solidify a base of support for climate awareness. Information visualizations, if configured for these readers, can play a key part in making scientific texts more understandable and memorable. This paper provides examples of information visualizations in popular climate-change related texts, and suggests practices to assure effective visual communications.