Science communication through the lens of sacred ecology: some reflections from India

Science communication focuses on raising awareness and increasing audiences’ interest in science domains in an accessible, accurate and understandable way (Burns et al., 2003). Effective science communication can encourage critical thinking and sound decision-making (Fischhoff, 2013). Scholars are now turning to culture-specific approaches for enhancing audience engagement with science-related information (see Medin and Bang, 2014). This commentary encourages rethinking science communication beyond existing methods (Bubela et al., 2009; Kearns, 2021; NASEM, 2017).
Sacred ecology emphasizes profound interconnectedness between cultural beliefs and ecological knowledge (Berkes, 2017). India's sacred ecology associates spiritual significance with natural ecosystems (see Baindur, 2009; Danino, 2023; Krishna, 2020), signifying ‘all nature as a reflection of the Creator's essence’. This commentary examines how this tradition in India offers a presently underutilized yet targeted approach and a unique lens for reimagining science communication, serving as a link between scientific and cultural worldviews. Such communication can encompass domains ranging from biodiversity conservation and water management to theoretical physics and geography.