Revised Science Popularization Law for Innovation, Public Engagement

China's revised Science and Technology Popularization Law, which took effect immediately on December 25, 2024, marks a significant update after 22 years, reflecting the growing role of science communication in fostering innovation and improving public understanding of science.

Making science outreach popular

The revised law gives science popularization the same importance as technological innovation. It establishes a framework to integrate science communication with research advancements, ensuring scientific resources are transformed into public-friendly knowledge.

To enhance this effort, September has been designated as "national science popularization month," a time for intensive science outreach activities.

September, usually coinciding with the new school year, will provide opportunities to integrate science outreach into school curricula and nurture future talent in the sci-tech field.

With China's rapid progress in areas like artificial intelligence, gene editing and nuclear energy, targeted science communication in these fields is needed. The law encourages sharing knowledge about cutting-edge technologies while adhering to confidentiality rules.

Building a higher-quality workforce

The revised law dedicates a chapter to "Science Popularization Personnel," emphasizing the importance of building a professional and well-supported workforce. It encourages scientists, teachers and elderly professionals to actively engage in science outreach.

To address the challenges faced by researchers in balancing science communication with career growth, it calls for improved evaluation and incentive systems. This includes encouraging the establishment of professional assessments and performance evaluation systems fitting the characteristics of science popularization.

The law also outlines responsibilities for businesses, urging sci-tech enterprises to incorporate science communication into their social responsibility efforts. Companies are encouraged to open research facilities to the public and develop science outreach programs.

The revised law encourages the creation of high-quality science communication materials that are innovative, original, and scientifically rigorous. It places a strong emphasis on protecting intellectual property rights for science communication achievements. This legal support will motivate creators to dedicate more efforts to producing high-quality science content.

Fighting misinformation

To address the growing problem of misinformation, particularly online misinformation, the law mandates stricter regulations for science communication content. It requires organizations and individuals to ensure accuracy and prohibits the spread of false or misleading information.

During public emergencies, misinformation often spreads rapidly, leading to confusion and panic. Currently, while science popularization information is widely available online, many high-quality resources remain underutilized due to challenges in ensuring public access.

The new law has a dedicated chapter on science popularization activities, emphasizing efforts to raise awareness and preparedness for natural disasters, accidents and public health crises. It mandates the establishment of platforms and resources for emergency popularization, and the improvement of response mechanism.

Additionally, it aims to enhance the public's capability of emergency response, and raise awareness for self-rescue.

Experts say these initiatives will provide individuals with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively during crises, saving lives and enhancing social resilience.

Source: Science and Technology Daily