Share climate change articles
- Earth Points
- 15
- Ease
- Easy
Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash
Description
Sharing articles is a fantastic way to educate people about climate change, and it has multiple benefits.
People cannot know what they have not learned. Sharing articles on social media or directly can help people understand what climate change is, what causes it, how it affects us and the planet, and, most importantly, what we can do about it.
Sharing accurate information can even influence people who are skeptical about climate change. A study found that accurate science reporting improved climate beliefs and support for action across political groups, including among people who initially rejected human-caused climate change. However, these changes faded quickly and could be reversed by later misinformation. The takeaway is to share accurate science clearly and consistently.
On the other hand, for those already concerned about climate change, the doom and gloom of the science can become overwhelming. Climate distress can affect people’s well-being and, at serious levels, their ability to participate in climate efforts.
One way to help is to share credible stories about solutions and progress. Research on solutions journalism suggests that stories examining responses to climate problems can increase positive feelings, collective efficacy, and intentions to take pro-environmental action.
Share articles about both the seriousness of the climate crisis and credible efforts to address it. Accurate information can educate people, while stories of collective action can show that progress is possible and that everyone can be a part of the solution to climate pollution.
Tips
• Choose established news outlets, universities, government agencies, scientific organizations, and peer-reviewed research. Clear sourcing helps readers assess and trust the information.
• Look for examples of how climate change affects your area and nature, as well as what communities are doing to create positive change.
• Consider including a quick note explaining why you chose the article or what stood out to you.
• Be cautious when a company, government, or organization makes vague or unsupported environmental claims. Check whether the article provides evidence and independent sources. Keep a critical eye. As you learn more, misleading environmental claims will become easier to spot.
