Why talk about the climate crisis? It might seem like a small step, but climate communication experts say it’s one of the most important actions you can take to raise awareness about the issues. In the United States, where about 7 out of 10 people think that global warming is happening, only about 4 out of 10 discuss it occasionally or regularly [1]. The subject can feel intimidating. Yet you don’t need to be a climate science expert to discuss climate change; in fact, when people hear about climate change from someone they know, they’re more likely to consider the issues than when they hear about climate change from distant figures [2]. Simply discussing key facts and personal concerns with someone close to you can kick-start a cycle of learning, concern, and action. So how can you do this in your social circle? This poster suggests four steps to get a conversation started.

1. Climate Change in the American Mind: November 2019
2. https://climatecommunication.yale.edu/publications/climate-change-in-the-american-mind-november-2019/
3. Discussing Global Warming Leads To Greater Acceptance Of Climate Science
4. https://www.pnas.org/content/116/30/14804

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