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download a printable climate conversations tip card

Let’s talk! A conversation about a major problem like climate change can be the first step for finding solutions that stick—solutions that bring people together to make them happen.

Make it a habit to start climate conversations. Here are some tips for starting one.

Connect - don’t try to convert. Global warming deniers are a small, if vocal, minority. Instead of wasting energy there, invest in connecting with the majority of folks who are convinced that climate change is a problem and want to do something about it, but aren't sure how.

Acknowledge emotions. Our feelings of anxiety, anger or powerlessness can turn us off from connecting, let alone taking action. Naming and talking about those feelings can help. And laugh! There is so much absurdity around, let’s find the joy.

Hey, what about this crazy weather? True, weather is not the same thing as climate. But almost everyone talks about the weather every day. And the extremes of harsh storms, wildfire, and heat can be the starting point for conversations about how we can change things for the better,

Good conversations start with shared values. Climate impacts are upon us now. Help others connect the dots between climate change and where they're at; with what else is going on in their lives.

We have no time for guilt or shame. The ideal time to talk about climate, and to commit to climate action, is always right now. 

Solutions, solutions, solutions:  There are so many climate solutions that benefit everyone—stopping pollution, saving energy, spreading cool technology like heat pumps. What solutions are people knowledgeable or curious about? Talk about what has excited you, with a story or an interesting example of clean energy providing comfort, safety or savings.

Try and try again. Fossil fuel industries—the ones that are most responsible for the climate mess that we’re in—benefit directly from our inattention, cynicism and inaction. So let’s invest in hope and determination instead! Some folks won’t want to talk about climate... keep trying. You’ll find that many others do. 

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