Why This Matters More Than Ever
Climate change hasn’t disappeared – it’s like background music that’s become so constant we’ve learned to tune it out. The heat waves, wildfires, and floods beat an urgent rhythm, but we’ve developed selective hearing. Even though a major worldwide study reveals that most people do want their countries to act faster on climate solutions, we may feel alone in caring – but we aren’t.
Why This Matters More Than Ever

The Silent Majority Problem
Why do we think we are alone in caring about climate change? Because we aren’t hearing other people express similar thoughts. When no one is talking about climate change, we assume our concerns are not shared by others. The reality is that others are concerned, but may feel that climate change is difficult to discuss. Here’s the breakthrough insight: We’re willing to act when we believe our actions matter. But our actions only feel meaningful when we know others share our concerns.

Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe describes our situation perfectly: “Our collective voice has always been the catalyst for action and today, the data is clear: the majority of voices already agree. We just have to start using them!”

Your July Challenge: Be a Climate Conversation Starter

This month’s action is beautifully simple yet powerful: Have intentional conversations about climate change with friends and family. Here’s what happens when you speak up:
🗣️ You give others permission to care openly
🤝 You validate concerns people already have
💪 You help build the critical mass needed for real change

Conversation Starters: 

• Change starts in the heart, not only the head. Share what you love, what you feel passionate about: for example. your longing for a better future for our children and grandchildren. Or what you most love about the natural beauty of our Maine home.
• Start with the here and now: Discuss events in the natural world in the context of climate change. For example:  I hear that lobsters are moving north and there will be fewer lobsters to catch in southern Maine waters. This is because of warming ocean waters due to climate change. Or: we never used to get these torrential rains. With the warmer temperatures from climate change the air can hold more water.
• Talk about your why: when you share about what you are doing to lower your carbon footprint, you are leading by example. But even more powerful is your why, because it connects to what you most value and care about. Why do you compost food scraps? Why did you get an EV or install heat pumps? Why are you limiting plane travel? Share what you value without judging or competing

Helpful Tips

• Keep it hopeful and personal. Your goal is to guide and illuminate, not to overwhelm with alarm bells. Share your genuine concerns about the future, but always pair them with examples of positive action and progress.
• Expect mostly friendly territory. According to Yale’s Climate Change Communication research, you’re entering a room where 54% of people are already “Alarmed” or “Concerned” about climate change. Only 22% fall into the “Doubtful” or “Dismissive” camps.
• If you hit resistance, remember you’re planting seeds, not harvesting crops. Some conversations won’t bloom immediately, and that’s okay. Like a gardener, your job is to plant thoughtfully and move on, not to stand over every seed demanding immediate growth.

The Ripple Effect of Your Voice

Every movement that has created lasting change – from civil rights to ending apartheid – started with individuals who were willing to break the silence. They discovered they weren’t alone; they just needed to speak up first to find their allies.

Don’t Let Politics Paralyze Progress

Yes, current federal policies might feel discouraging. But remember real change often bubbles up from the conversations we start with our friends, families and communities. Your voice at the local level is preparing the ground for when the political winds shift again.

Ready to Take Action?

This July, commit to having at least three meaningful climate conversations with people in your circle. Whether it’s over coffee with a neighbor, during a family barbecue, or while walking with a friend – find those natural moments to share why you care about our climate’s future.

Remember: You’re not trying to convert anyone. You’re simply letting others know that climate action matters to you, and that you believe we can make a difference together.