It is anticipated that there will be a number of benefits to theAustralian black coal industry arising from this roadmap and associated studyof activities. In particular it enables industry partners to draw fromthe best communication processes available from around the world to develop along term capability in this area to progress CCS successfully. Byfinding relevant applications for the Australian market place it will alsoassist in ensuring the long term sustainability of the Australian coalindustry. It also confirms the work conducted by Australian researchorganisations to date have been world class and are sound processes forengaging communities in discussion around this topic.
Arising from this analysis is a number of recommendations forthe industry to provide a guide for future communication strategies regardingCCS. The recommendations include:
R1: Proactively communicate about CCS to the range ofstakeholders through dialogue and discussion.
R2: The Australian coal industry partner with credible environmentalNGO's and other trusted sources to develop communication materials whichclearly outline the benefits of CCS and address the major concerns the publiccurrently hold.
R3: Ensure an independent NGO is engaged to work with theAustralian Coal Industry to communicate about CCS activities in Australia.
R4: Invest in developing education curricula which addresses thetopic of climate change, the role of coal in energy generation and solutionsfor mitigation.
R5: Find opportunities to engage high profile public figures tostimulate discussion around the issues being addressed by CCS would help toraise a more positive profile within communities.
R6: Review in more detail the range of communication materialsalready developed and test their applicability to the Australian public usingfocus groups with a range of target audiences.
R7: Develop communication tools for a range of mediums includingInternet, newspaper, television and radio.
R8: Where possible, demonstrate support for renewable energysources as part of the portfolio of solutions to climate change.
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R9: Identify resources to facilitate and support ongoingactivity.
