Cross-Cultural Climate Communication in Podcasts: A Comparative Discourse and Engagement Analysis

Abstract

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges, necessitating effective communication strategies to raise public awareness and promote action. As a growing digital medium, podcasts have emerged as influential platforms for climate communication, with broadcasters playing a crucial role in shaping public perceptions. This study explores the role of broadcasters in addressing climate change through climate-themed podcasts from a cross-cultural perspective. By analyzing podcast content from diverse cultural contexts, this research examines how linguistic styles, narrative strategies, and engagement techniques influence audience reception and environmental attitudes. The study adopts a qualitative approach, employing content analysis and comparative methods to identify key patterns in climate communication across different regions. Conceptual insights indicate that cultural factors significantly impact how climate issues are framed and conveyed, with variations in directness, emotional appeal, and scientific emphasis. Additionally, the effectiveness of broadcasters' delivery styles, including tone, speech patterns, and interaction with listeners, shapes audience engagement and trust. This research contributes to the growing field of environmental communication by providing insights into how podcasting can serve as a strategic tool for climate advocacy. The study also offers practical recommendations for broadcasters to enhance cross-cultural climate communication and foster greater public engagement in climate action.