Translational ecology in cities: Unconventional dissemination strategies for ecological awareness and action

Background/Question/Methods

The ecological problems associated with alterations in urban watersheds are extensive and well-documented. An ongoing challenge, however, is to convey this research in a way that makes sense to the general public. In cities particularly, the amount of information available through ubiquitous marketing channels makes it challenging to convey ecological messages in a manner that is distinctive and effective. We describe how the use of technology, performance and public art, and the development of an alternative currency program provide three unconventional environmental outreach tools to connect the general public with their urban water system.

The first tool we developed is a mobile device application called “Raindrop” that uses geographic information systems (GIS) and mobile device GPS technology to map a raindrop’s path from a user’s home to the White River. The second tool is a collective impact initiative called Reconnecting to Our Waterways (ROW), which leverages community partnerships and extensively uses art to disseminate a wide variety of information about six waterways in the city of Indianapolis. Finally, a program called “Make Change” establishes an alternative currency in an underserved neighborhood in the city to encourage activities that benefit the urban waterway.

Results/Conclusions

These three initiatives have been successful at engaging the public about their urban water system in unique ways. While Raindrop was initially conceived as an informal science learning tool, short interviews conducted during project evaluation indicated its utility was greater in the formal setting and for directed learning. We learned that without elements of gamification or social networking, it is difficult to encourage repeated use of the application. The use of the arts as part of the ROW initiative has been highly successful at engaging high-level stakeholders with the waterways by making the education process highly entertaining and non-threatening. This has largely been used for program promotion and we have built upon the initial program success for future art / science installations. The Make Change program has over 50 participants prior to its formal launch and small businesses have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to support community members and encourage activities that benefit water.