EMSC 302
Orientation to Energy and Sustainability Policy

Communication and Context

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Communication and Context

In today's energy industry, especially as it relates to policy and communications, you have to be able to explain the issues, understand the context or situation and take a position based on this information. In thinking about this, this old commercial comes to mind, perhaps you will recognize it. It very clearly demonstrates the point that even one word, depending on the context, can influence the meaning and implications associated with it.

Video: Dude - Bud Light (0:51). Only audio is "dude" repeated at intervals.

Dude - Bud Light Commercial
Credit: Bud Light

Although this one singular word, "Dude" is uttered over and over again, the way in which it is delivered, and the situational surroundings provide enough context for the viewer to decipher the meaning. We can put this same type of example to the test in our energy and sustainability field with one word as well ......green.

What does it mean to be green? Has green been defined? How do you tell if something is not green? How do you explain this difference to others?