It's not always easy to talk to other people about the environment, especially if you're asking them to change their thoughts or behavior. That doesn't mean every climate conversation has to be awkward, though. Think of yourself as an ecological ambassador, an unofficial diplomat for Planet Earth. Use these pro tips to reach out to the people in your life.
Start With Your Common Ground: Nature
Starting from a place of common ground is a good way to connect with people about the planet. Heather Miller, a lifelong environmentalist and climate activist, points out that most people you meet really do value nature, no matter where they live or how they vote.
"I ask people what they like about being outside," she says. "Then I talk about the things I like too." Sharing that common interest helps create a safe space and the start of action.
There are a lot of ways to reinforce your shared interest in nature, but these are a few good options:
- Talk about local activities that are nature-based like hiking along a certain river or fishing in a nearby lake.
- Discuss national parks you've both visited.
- Compare favorite wild animals.
- Talk about the beauty of the changing seasons.
Ask Questions About the Planet That Make People Think
As anyone who has been on the planet for a few years can agree, telling someone what to do or think never works. They need to come to their own conclusions, but you can help them get there with questions that might make them consider things a bit more.
"I like to ask people what they did outdoors when they were kids," Miller says. "Then I ask, 'Have you noticed any changes in the environment over the years?'" She feels this type of neutral question doesn't immediately put others on the defensive, so it's good for fostering more conversation and thought. It's also open-ended and not easily answered with one word or a simple "yes" or "no."
You can ask any question that will help prompt people to think, but it's good to avoid something that might already have a negative bias. For example, instead of asking what worries people most about the environment, you could ask what they think is most helpful in preserving it.
Listen Well When You Have Environmental Conversations
Being an ecological ambassador doesn't just mean talking people around to your point of view. It's also about listening. Miller says this is especially important when you meet people who might not share your point of view. "You have to repeat back what they say to show them you understand," she says. "You have to acknowledge it and validate it."
Showing someone you're listening helps foster real communication, and there are a lot of ways to do that when you have a conversation about the planet:
- Ask questions that build on something they said about the environment and get them to talk about it more.
- Make eye contact and nod to send non-verbal signals that you're paying attention.
- Refer back to something they said in a later conversation. This signals that you've been thinking about what they shared.
Related: Improve Your Relationships by Removing These Common Communication Barriers
Reach Across the Generations to Heal the Planet
It's easy to get caught up in generational dynamics when you're talking to people. We've all been guilty of making assumptions and generalizations about other generations, but the environment is something we all have in common. If you can, set aside what you assume about specific generations and take a look at what they might be doing to make a positive impact on the planet. This can help when you have a conversation.
Miller is part of , an organization that unites people over 60 to work together to safeguard the climate, and she loves it when they get a chance to demonstrate or work side by side with younger people at protests and events. "The younger generation is amazing," she says. "They're very dynamic and committed, very eloquent about what they believe. Older people want to leave a better world for this younger generation. We're all in this together. This is a world we all live in."
Remembering this commonality makes a big difference when you're reaching out to others. Instead of seeing a Baby Boomer or a Zoomer or a Millennial, we can choose to see an ally, someone who might be able to make a real difference.
Related: 10 Things Kids Did in the '80s That Would Shock Kids Today
Inspire Others With Your Actions
You know that old adage, "Actions speak louder than words"? Well, it's true about being an ecological ambassador, too. When people see you doing something awesome to help the planet, it can inspire them to act. "It's really good to model the behavior you want others to do," Miller says.
There are so many ways to show your support for the planet in a way that others might notice, but here are a few to try if you need a little inspiration:
- Pick up trash in a public park or along a roadside.
- Invite friends over for a meat-free meal once a week.
- Use public transportation instead of driving.
- Choose reusable water bottles and give them as gifts to friends.
- Invite friends to a thrift shop with you and show off your great finds.
You're Making a Difference in the World
As an ecological ambassador, your role is really important. We all need to do our part, and inspiring others is powerful. From small actions that lead by example to those thought-provoking conversations you can have with friends and neighbors, you are making a difference as a diplomat for the earth we all love.
