What is the impact?
Publications and debates have given the residents of the Choczewo municipality and Pomerania access to knowledge about, among other things, safety, environmental impact, the job market, infrastructure, tourism, and the long-term social effects of building a nuclear power plant. The project confirmed that the residents of Choczewo experience a serious deficit of information about the nuclear investment. The debate showed that a single meeting at the municipal office is not enough. Residents expect a series of similar debates and consultations to also be held in smaller villages, with the participation of local and county authorities, Polish Nuclear Power Plants, the Pomeranian Voivodeship Local Government, as well as independent experts and environmentalists. Only dialogue that’s “closer to the people” can build trust and real participation of residents in the decision-making process.
Communication with the editorial team via email at atom@zawszepomorze.pl, through Facebook Messenger, as well as open debates in Choczewo, revealed the caution and uncertainty of residents, who often don’t want to speak publicly for fear of consequences. The project created a safe space to express these concerns and bring them to light. Residents of Choczewo stressed that the lack of continuous, clear communication encourages misinformation and growing fears. They pointed out the need for constant access to reliable information, independent of investors and administration. According to the residents, Zawsze Pomorze could play this role as a portal and weekly newspaper providing transparent coverage, expert analyses, and the voice of the local community. Regularly publishing materials based on data, expert opinions, and on-the-ground reports helped reduce rising fears and rumours that appear when there’s a lack of transparent communication.
The changes caused by implementing the project are confirmed by Google Analytics stats, the number of likes, followers, reactions, and shares on FB. Social awareness of the impacts of nuclear investment has increased. The project not only described reality but actually changed it, strengthening local democracy and a culture of dialogue.
