From Fear to Action: How to Communicate Climate Change Effectively

Climate change and its impacts are some of the biggest environmental, health, and societal issues our society is facing today. Our environment is experiencing more natural disasters such as heat waves, floods, and other increased extreme weather events. The environmental damage impacts public health in the form of access to safe drinking water, clean air, adequate and healthy food supply, safe shelter, and resources.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 24% of all global deaths are due to environmental issues. This number will only keep growing if climate change is not addressed and actions are not taken to mitigate the adverse effects on the public’s health. As health communicators, we must take into consideration how the language we use to convey health information is perceived by the public so they can use it effectively. Climate change can be a divisive issue, and even though the majority of Americans support climate mitigation policies, speaking about it in an appropriate way is more important than ever. We must use language that inspires change, not that perpetuates fear or inaction due to a lack of understanding or hopefulness. Effective communication involves being informed, empathetic, and proactive.

1. Be mindful of scientific jargon and difficult language.

Using language that allows people to understand the science behind climate change is important. Using plain language to convey ideas and explain complex concepts in easier-to-understand language is essential to ensure people can understand and act on this information.

2. Convey the importance while proposing solutions.

Emphasize the urgency of the situation while proposing ways to mitigate damages and adapt to changes. It is counterproductive to explain the importance without highlighting what can be done. It can increase fear and feelings of not being able to do anything to help. Proposing solutions shows that there are still ways to help.

3. Discuss the impacts.

Providing examples of current health impacts or local changes due to climate trends shows the importance of action. Making people aware of the impact of climate change on the globe and in their communities may make them more aware of the crisis and how they will be affected. Personalize it so they understand what may happen to their future.

4. Encourage individual research and understanding to engage in dialogue.

It is not enough to simply tell people the facts, we must get them interested enough to do their own research to foster their understanding. This will make it easier for them to start conversations about it and get others involved.

5. Emphasize hope and action.

Highlighting success stories that show progress, encouraging optimism, and motivating others to get involved through activism, advocacy, or personal lifestyle changes can inspire people to want to get involved.

Knowing how to talk about the issue will allow us to motivate people to want to do their part and get others involved. We must use language that achieves this goal, instead of using language that will foster feelings of hopelessness or fear due to the seriousness of the situation.

For more guidance and information about Climate Change Communication:

• The Right Words Are Crucial to Solving Climate Change | Scientific American
• The Psychology of Climate Change Communication: A Guide for Scientists, Journalists, Educators, Political Aides, and the Interested Public | Columbia University Center for Research on Environmental Decisions
• Fear Doesn't Work and Other Lessons on Climate Change Communication | ClimateTracker.org
• Effective Advocacy and Communication Strategies at the Intersection of Climate Change and Health | George Mason University Center for Climate Change Communication

By: Abigail Johnson