Re: Climate (2018.11)

Climate change is a big and complicated topic — so it's no wonder that many people find it difficult to discuss. But if we're going to thoughtfully and comprehensively address the problem, we need to make this a conversation that includes everyone.

This holiday season, don't shy from tackling the topic with family and friends! The quick tips we're providing below (and in next month's column) can help you both be prepared and well received in conversations about our changing climate.

• Tip #1: Rather than focusing on causes, discuss local impacts and responses.It's important to convey a sense of urgency about the immediate consequences of climate change because our livelihoods, infrastructures and natural areas are at stake. We must act now to address changes that are already underway while we lessen the perils of threats on the horizon. To that end, the goal of our messages should be to empower people to act, not to shame them into doing so. Focusing too much on causes can alienate people who may feel they are being judged for their personal contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. Regardless of our individual carbon footprints, we're all in this together. Everyone has a role to play in climate adaptation, so talk about the many ways different people can take action in their communities.
• Tip #2: Avoid technical jargon. Instead, use language that can be readily understood. Shoptalk, acronyms and abstract concepts can make people who are not part of the associated profession feel like outsiders. (Many people are unclear what "riparian" or "watershed" means.) And for certain audiences, jargon is interpreted as some kind of secret code or red herring, intended to conceal or mislead. So avoid the technical language that makes it harder for people to understand what you are trying to communicate. Your messages should be clear, discussing "natural areas" instead of "ecosystems" or "working farms and ranches" rather than "agricultural land." Speak in plain language and engage people rather than lecturing them. Once you've established a rapport based on mutual understanding, you may find that some audiences will become more open to nuance and complexity.

But what about some common myths surrounding climate change? How do you respond? That's a column for another time. Specifically, next month. I'll see you back here then!

Kelly Watkinson is land and climate program manager at the Land Trust Alliance.