Communication

I’ve been impressed for some time by Climate Outreach in the UK. Their small team studies effective ways to deal with the climate crisis - and a couple of my own recent presentations show how other writers use ones that provide hope. Here are some of the key findings from their 2024 report on how Britain Talks Climate. Read the full report.

• They found that no demographic or segment of the general population opposes climate change as a reality that requires action.

• People believe climate change is the job of government - without necessarily feeling that their current government is doing enough.

• They want to work with others in tackling it - not just on an individual basis.

How we talk about it matters:

• Don’t assume that others don’t think it matters. They do. They will differ on the process, but they do care.

• Don’t make people more worried. They are already anxious enough.

• Talk about the progress that is already underway and its benefits.

• Make the connections - a healthy planet, a resilient nature, our own well being.

• Recognize that for many change is scary and times are hard.

Things to avoid

• That climate change is all about more hardship and sacrifice.

• Drastic approaches that are against common sense

• Pitting different aspects of nature and climate change against each other.

The also have good ideas about images and what ones work like the one used here.