Recommendations for effective dissemination of scientific information, based on the analyses of Twitter data concerning radiation after the Fukushima nuclear accident

After the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident, there were various conflicting opinions regarding radiation risks, and especially on social media, there was a marked division between groups that disseminated information based on scientific facts and those that disseminated emotional rather than factual statements. It is necessary to consider how scientists can effectively disseminate correct information to the public, focusing on the use of social media, which is becoming more and more important. We have compiled a set of recommendations for science and risk communication in the new era, based on our research results on the analysis of Twitter big data concerning radiation, corresponding network simulations of information dissemination and direct interviews to influencers, as well as on our experience in Web-based information transmission after the accident. Our studies have shown that experts must send out scientific information promptly. Immediate reaction is most important in fact-checking circulating information and denying wrong messages before they diffuse quickly in the society. There is no time to wait for experts’ consensus, and anyway unified opinions are not trusted as the public suspects them to be biased. The scientific community must be prepared for crises and build cooperation networks among scientists.