Starting conversations about climate change

The document argues that talking about climate change is a critical individual action to normalize the topic and overcome the common misperception that others do not care about the issue. It provides a set of communication guidelines based on science and expert advice, emphasizing the use of shared values, personal stories, and empathetic listening over technical jargon or argumentative approaches. The guide highlights a gap in U.S. public perception, noting that while 63% of Americans are concerned about climate change, they believe only 43% share that concern, which often leads to silence and inaction.

• There is a significant gap between actual public concern regarding climate change in the U.S. and the perceived level of concern among others, which can discourage people from speaking or acting on the issue.
• Despite the high level of concern, a minority of Americans engage in discussions about climate change with their personal networks.
• Effective climate communication relies on connecting the issue to a person's shared values and experiences rather than focusing on differences.
• Conversations are more productive when they avoid jargon, utilize personal stories to make abstract concepts concrete, and prioritize empathy and curiosity over judgment to prevent the listener from shutting down.

APA

Climate Central (2025). Starting conversations about climate change. https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/starting-conversations-about-climate-change

Chicago

Climate Central. Starting conversations about climate change. 2025. https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/starting-conversations-about-climate-change.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=Climate Central |title=Starting conversations about climate change |date=17 December 2025 |url=https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/starting-conversations-about-climate-change |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{climatecentral2025starting, author = {{Climate Central}}, title = {{Starting conversations about climate change}}, institution = {Climate Central}, year = {2025}, month = dec, url = {https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/starting-conversations-about-climate-change}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }