Is there some difference between "western science" and, you know, "science"? The story says nothing at all about "western" science. Science doesn't care who or where the work of acquiring knowledge and understanding the universe is conducted.

A big part of why the public might not trust science is because they don't understand that science is never complete and proven. There is always more to learn. Initial observations, interpretations, theories, and recommendations can change as more and better knowledge is acquired, theories are elaborated and refined, and consequences are better understood. Scientists can perhaps do a better job of distinguishing between early indicators and more strongly supported interpretations based on larger and more reliable datasets and observations.