What it is
Katharine Hayhoe, atmospheric scientist and professor at Texas Tech University, argues that the biggest barrier to climate action is not scientific uncertainty but human disconnection. Published in 2021, the book provides practical frameworks for having productive climate conversations with people across the political spectrum.
Why we picked this
Most climate resources focus on the science or the technology. Hayhoe addresses the human element: how to actually talk about climate change in a way that changes minds. Her framework of connecting climate to things people already care about (health, jobs, faith, family) is essential for anyone in climate communication.
Key takeaways
- Only 8-10% of people are truly dismissive of climate change. The vast majority are concerned but feel powerless or disconnected from the issue.
- Hayhoe's framework: bond over shared values first, connect climate to something they already care about, then inspire action by showing what is already being done.
- Faith communities are one of the largest untapped audiences for climate action. Hayhoe, an evangelical Christian, demonstrates how to bridge the perceived gap between faith and environmental concern.