Whether it’s with family at home, new friends, or fellow classmates, talking about the environment, and especially climate change, can be difficult. 

Climate change can be tough to explain or communicate effectively to others, but with evidence-based strategies presented by Dr. Megan Ennes at the Environmental Leaders Network’s recent ‘Let’s Talk Climate: Lunch and Learn,’ attendees are more prepared to navigate these conversations.  

The event was co-sponsored by TESI and the UF Bob Graham Center Gulf Scholars program, and during the lunch attendees got to learn more about both organizations and how students can get involved.  

The Gulf Scholars Program launched earlier this year and is a project-based learning opportunity that prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to create meaningful change in their communities, particularly those around the Gulf of Mexico. Students in the program can also achieve the Gulf Scholars Medallion, an award highlighting skills and achievements, by completing coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and an individual project.  

During her talk, Dr. Ennes presented work from the National Network for Ocean and Climate Change Interpretation (NNOCCI) which includes research-based strategies for how to better engage others when speaking about climate change. For instance, finding a common value, such as a care for family or animals, can appeal to emotions and lead to a more productive conversation as both parties begin to see where the other person is coming from. Using helpful metaphors such as “heat trapping blanket” can also help people understand how rampant carbon dioxide and other emissions affect the Earth without going into specific scientific mechanisms that may alienate listeners. Dr. Ennes noted that these strategies can be used for more than just climate change discussions; they can also serve as a framework for conversing about other environmental topics.

The event concluded with a Q&A, during which participants got to learn more about Dr. Ennes’ career path and how she came to be involved with NNOCCI.  The ‘Let’s Talk Climate: Lunch and Learn’ attendees departed empowered with new strategies to talk science, as well as connections to new resources on campus. TESI looks forward to hosting another Lunch and Learn workshop in the spring!