Celebrating Women’s Achievements

“March is the month dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. In alignment with this spirit, sister projects Regilience, ARSINOE, IMPETUS, TransformAr, Pathways2Resilience and REACHOUT have jointly engaged in insightful conversations with inspiring women actively involved in crafting resilience and adaptation solutions to address the inevitable challenges posed by Climate Change. Discover Chiara Mazzetti’s journey! She is Head of Events and Communications Manager at Ecologic Institute and responsible for the Strategic Communication and Dissemination reporting for REACHOUT. 

Chiara, what inspired you to get involved in science communication, and how is your expertise and background concretely reflected in your role in the REACHOUT project?

‘As a communications expert in the REACHOUT project, I leverage my background in science communication and a profound passion for environmental issues. My journey began in Perugia, a middle-size historical town located in Umbria, known as the “green heart of Italy.” There I studied advertising, communication, and journalism, and fully explored and appreciated the interconnection of art, culture, and nature. Following an inspiring internship at the European Institutions in Brussels, my perspective broadened. This experience inspired me to focus on EU-funded projects, recognizing their potential to align with my values and allow me to make a tangible impact on environmental protection.

Through my careers, I have always prioritized fostering discussions on environmental goals, including climate change adaptation strategies, and engaging stakeholders through events and communication actions. In REACHOUT, as part of a larger communications team, I oversee the implementation of our communication and dissemination strategy. This strategy, developed through collaborative efforts with Work Package leaders and consortium partners, reflects our commitment to addressing climate-related vulnerability. It also promotes our Triple-A Toolkit, which can help EU cities analyze climate risks, set resilient development goals, and choose adaptation actions to achieve long-term sustainability.’

What are the main drivers that have motivated and still motivate you to contribute to the field of climate adaptation and resilience?

‘Climate change disproportionately affects women globally, worsening existing inequalities. Women, often reliant on natural resources for their livelihoods, bear a greater burden during climate-related disasters. Cultural norms and societal constraints further limit their access to resources and decision-making, heightening their vulnerability to climate impacts.

As a science communicator, I believe that raising awareness about the impacts of climate change – especially on women – is essential. We need to ensure women are involved in decision-making, support their initiatives, provide platforms for their voices, and actively engage them in climate action. Through education, collaboration, and inclusive action, we can work towards a more equitable future for all.

Another factor that drives me is the quality of life in urban areas. Berlin, my current home, like Perugia, is characterized by plenty of green spaces, bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and community-friendly area. I strongly believe that cities designed with the well-being and health of their residents in mind can greatly enhance their overall quality of life.’

What is the biggest challenge you faced in your career, notably as a woman your field?

‘In my career, one of the biggest challenges I have faced, particularly as a woman, is dealing with people not taking women’s expertise seriously. Because of biases and stereotypes, women often face skepticism and pushback when they simply try to do their job. Fortunately, I had and still have the opportunity to work in companies that value and support women’s contributions.’

From your perspective, what is the biggest challenge now regarding our ability to adapt to climate change?

‘From a communication perspective, one of our greatest challenges is getting more people to support environmental action. This requires people to understand and trust science. Disinformation creates doubt and slows down efforts to make effective environmental policies. Our world is like a big puzzle of interconnected natural parts; messing with one piece affects the whole system. It’s crucial that people see these connections so they can take action.

As science communicators, our job is to clarify – and visualize – how nature works together and why climate change is urgent. By making science accessible and helping people to make informed decisions, we can build enough momentum to pressure governments, industries, and others to make meaningful changes for the environment.’

What makes you more hopeful for the future?

‘Younger generations appear to be more concerned about climate change compared to older age groups. Personally, working alongside young, motivated people, I feel inspired by their creativity, enthusiasm and drive. Whether they are debating, co-creating, questioning others, or joining forces for admirable initiatives, their collective effort is truly inspiring. I am committed to playing my part in facilitating and supporting cooperation and action for a sustainable society.’