Chapter 2. Starting the Conversation

Climate change can feel like a huge, complicated topic – and it’s normal to feel nervous about bringing it up. But talking about it is one of the most powerful things we can do. Researchers have found that when people talk about climate change, it can lead to greater understanding of the science and even inspire action, which in turn can ease climate anxiety (1). In other words, starting a conversation about climate change – with friends, family, classmates, or community members – can make a real difference. This chapter will help you prepare yourself to talk about climate change in a knowledgeable, confident, and trauma-informed way. We’ll explore how to learn about the issue from credible sources, reflect on your own values and emotions, and find the right moments to have meaningful conversations. We’ll also discuss blending face-to-face dialogue with digital tools, and how empathy, personal stories, and cultural perspectives (including Indigenous knowledge) can guide respectful communication.

Learning and Gathering Credible Knowledge

The first step in feeling confident talking about climate change is learning about the issue from sources you can trust. There’s a lot of information out there – and unfortunately, also a lot of misinformation. In fact, climate misinformation is everywhere, which can leave young people confused or hopeless if they get the wrong message (2). To cut through the noise, it helps to stick to credible, youth-friendly sources of climate science and solutions. For example, you might explore resources like NASA’s climate change websites (including NASA Climate Kids for a clear introduction to climate science), National Geographic Kids articles on the environment, or UNICEF’s youth-oriented climate pages. These sources break down the basics: what climate change is, why it’s happening, and how it affects us – all in language that’s engaging and easy to understand. Canadian sources are great too. Check out the Climate Atlas of Canada, an interactive site that combines scientific data with local stories, including voices of Indigenous and youth climate leaders. It’s a handy way to learn about what’s happening in different regions of Canada, and it shows you real examples of communities responding to climate change.

Don’t forget that local and community resources can be valuable for learning. Your school might have an environment club with information to share, or local libraries and museums might host workshops for youth on climate science. Listening to experts is important, but so is learning from each other. You could team up with friends to research a climate topic that interests you – for example, renewable energy, wildlife conservation, or climate justice – and then share what you learned. By pooling knowledge, you not only educate yourselves but also practice discussing the topic in a casual, low-pressure way.

As you learn, it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers. No one expects you to be a climate scientist – you’re allowed to say “I’m not sure, but I can look that up.” What’s important is that you’re building a base of accurate information. Knowing the facts (like the basic causes of climate change, or examples of solutions that are working) will give you confidence when you start a conversation. It also helps you correct misconceptions gently if they come up. For instance, if someone says “Isn’t it too late to do anything?”, you can share that many people are taking action and that every bit of warming prevented makes a difference (2).

Finally, remember that credible knowledge isn’t just about reading websites and reports – it can also come from listening to elders, community leaders, and those with lived experience. Indigenous communities, for example, have observed changes in the land and climate over generations and have knowledge to share about living in balance with nature. By learning about these perspectives (through videos, talks, or community events), you enrich your understanding of climate change beyond the charts and graphs. This will help you speak about the issue not only from a scientific angle but also from a place of culture and lived experience.

Reflecting on Emotions and Values (Preparing Yourself)

Knowledge is important, but being emotionally prepared is just as crucial. Climate change can be scary – many young people feel anxiety, anger, or sadness about what’s happening to our planet. In a 2021 study published in The Lancet, thousands of youth worldwide reported that climate anxiety and other distressing emotions were affecting their daily lives (3). If you’ve ever felt a knot in your stomach thinking about wildfires, or helpless after reading a depressing climate headline, you’re definitely not alone. Before diving into a big climate conversation, it helps to check in with your own feelings.

Being “trauma-informed” means recognizing that climate change is not just an abstract problem – it can be deeply personal and even tied to traumatic experiences (like living through a flood or wildfire). Give yourself permission to acknowledge any feelings you have about it. Are you worried about the future? Angry about inaction? Inspired to make a change? All those feelings are valid. One way to prepare is to find healthy ways to process these emotions before you start the conversation. You might talk to a close friend who understands how you feel, or write in a journal about your hopes and fears. Some people find it helpful to channel anxiety into action – for example, by volunteering for a local tree-planting event or school recycling drive – to remind themselves that they can make a difference, however small. Taking action, even in little ways, is a “vital antidote” to climate anxiety because it gives a sense of agency and hope (2).

Another part of emotional preparation is understanding your own values and reasons for caring about climate change. Ask yourself: Why does this issue matter to me? Is it because I value fairness for people who are affected? Because I love nature and wildlife? Because I feel responsible for future generations? There’s no wrong answer. When you reflect on what motivates you, you’ll feel more grounded when you speak. You’re not just reciting facts; you’re sharing something of personal importance. For example, maybe you grew up in a coastal town and saw how the shoreline changed over the years – and it made you realize how real climate impacts are. Or maybe your family practices teachings about caring for the Earth, and that cultural value drives you. Knowing your “why” will help you communicate from the heart, which is often more powerful than just spouting data.

Coping strategies are key to being emotionally ready. Before entering a tough conversation, it might help to take a few deep breaths or remind yourself that it’s okay if the talk gets heavy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at any point, you can pause or even respectfully disengage – climate conversations don’t have to be all-or-nothing. Part of trauma-informed engagement is setting boundaries for yourself. If the discussion starts triggering fear or despair, it’s alright to say, “This is a lot – maybe we can continue later” or to steer the conversation toward solutions and hope. You can even acknowledge your feelings to the other person: “This topic makes me anxious too, but I talk about it because I care.” Being open about emotions can invite empathy and make the conversation more human for everyone involved.

Finding Your Voice: Storytelling and Empathy

Once you’ve equipped yourself with knowledge and done some inner reflection, you’ll be more ready to find your voice on climate change. One of the most effective ways to connect with others is through personal storytelling. Facts alone can sometimes make people tune out – but a story can draw them in. In fact, research shows that relatable human stories can shift climate change from just a scientific issue to a social reality that people really connect with (4). Stories speak to our emotions and values. Think about the stories you can share: maybe the first time you realized climate change was real for you, or an experience that changed your perspective. It could be as simple as “I remember when smoke from wildfires meant we couldn’t play soccer outside for a week – it really hit me how our world is changing.” When you tell a story like that, you’re helping the listener see why you care, rather than just telling them.

Remember to root your story in hope and possibility, not just fear. It’s okay to talk about worries, but try to also mention what gives you hope or what you’re doing about it. For instance, after sharing the smoky soccer field memory, you might add, “That made me want to learn more about climate change and be part of the solution, which is why I joined the eco-club at school.” This way, your story isn’t a doom-and-gloom tale – it’s a journey that can inspire someone else. Climate conversations shouldn’t be about spreading despair; they should be about finding common ground and motivating each other. As young people, we can relate on so many shared experiences – growing up in this changing world, worrying about our future, but also dreaming about making things better.

Equally important is listening to others’ stories. Starting the conversation isn’t just about you talking; it’s about creating a dialogue. Invite the people you’re speaking with to share their thoughts or experiences. You could ask, “Have you ever noticed changes in our weather, or how does this issue make you feel?” Then really listen to their answer. Showing that you care about their perspective builds trust. It also helps you tailor the conversation in a way that resonates with them. Maybe your friend is really into technology – if they mention that, you can bond over cool innovations like solar panels or electric cars as part of the climate solution. Or if a family member talks about loving the local river, you can discuss how climate action is also about protecting the places we love. Listening actively and with empathy means you’re not just waiting for your turn to speak; you’re engaging with what the other person is saying. This back-and-forth creates a safe space where both of you feel heard.

Empathy is your superpower here. Approaching every conversation with empathy means respecting feelings and differences. Not everyone will have the same level of knowledge or the same emotional response to climate change. Some might be skeptical, not because they truly deny the science, but because they feel insecure about what it means for them. If someone expresses doubt or says something you know is incorrect, try responding with understanding first: “I get why it might seem that way,” or “It’s true that it can be confusing, I used to think something different too until I learned more.” By validating that it’s okay not to know everything, you invite them to explore the topic with you rather than feel defensive. This empathetic approach is supported by Indigenous communication values that emphasize respectful dialogue, listening, and building understanding together (5). In many Indigenous cultures, communication is about hearing all perspectives and finding common ground, rather than one-upping each other. We can all learn from that wisdom: a conversation will be more meaningful if everyone involved feels respected and understood.

Choosing the Right Moment and Place

How do you know when it’s a good time to talk about climate change? The truth is, there’s no perfect moment – but some moments are more naturally fitting than others. Look for openings in your everyday life. Maybe your class just watched a documentary about extreme weather, and people are buzzing with thoughts – that could be a great time to say, “That was intense. What did you all think about it?” Or perhaps you’re at a family dinner and someone brings up the unusually warm winter or a news story about a local flood. You can gently segue with something like, “Yeah, I heard about that. It’s crazy how these things are happening more with climate change – it really got me thinking…”. By linking the conversation to something that’s already on people’s minds, it feels more natural and relevant.

Sometimes you might create the opportunity. If there’s an upcoming event like Earth Day, a school climate rally, or even a new climate policy being discussed in the news, you can use that as a springboard. For example, “Did you hear our city is starting a food scrap recycling program? I’m kind of excited because it helps reduce emissions – what do you think?” This invites dialogue in a friendly, non-confrontational way. You’re not coming out of the blue with “we need to talk about climate change;” instead, you’re tying it to something tangible. School projects can also spark conversations – if you do a presentation on climate in class, that might open the door for classmates to ask questions or share opinions afterward. Be attentive to cues: if someone seems interested or concerned about an environmental topic, that’s your green light to engage further.

Equally important is recognizing when not to start the conversation. If the person is stressed, distracted, or clearly not in the headspace for a serious topic, it might be wise to wait. For instance, launching into a climate discussion when your friend is cramming for a math test or when your sibling is exhausted and grumpy might not yield the best results. Part of being a good communicator is having empathy for the right timing. If you start and notice the other person shutting down or getting overwhelmed, it’s okay to back off. You could say, “I can tell this is a bit much right now – we can chat about it another time.” That way, you leave the door open for future discussion without forcing it. Remember Tara Beck’s insight as an educator and parent: she looks for moments of readiness and respects when her kids indicate they’ve had enough, waiting for the next good moment to continue (3). You can do the same with your peers or family – pace the conversation and pick it up later if needed.

Setting can make a difference too. Think about where you feel comfortable talking. One-on-one conversations in a relaxed setting – like during a walk, hanging out at a park, or riding the bus home – can sometimes be more fruitful than in a big group where people might feel self-conscious. A quiet moment with a close friend can lead to deeper sharing. On the other hand, group settings like a club meeting or a workshop can spark energy and idea-sharing, which is great for brainstorming solutions or rallying action. Some youth find that climate conversation circles or “climate cafés” (informal meetups to talk about climate feelings and ideas) are a supportive space to connect with others. These might be organized at community centers, libraries, or even virtually. If you find or create a space like that, it can be an opportunity to meet others who want to talk and to practice sharing your thoughts in a welcoming environment.

Also, consider using events and projects to create conversations. Maybe you help organize a small environmental fair at school, a tree-planting day, or a screening of a climate-themed movie. During and after these activities, conversation tends to flow. People naturally chat about what they learned or why they came. Simply asking “What made you interested in this?” can spark a meaningful exchange. By being the one to ask questions and listen, you might be pleasantly surprised at how much others have been waiting to talk about climate change too, but weren’t sure how to start. You become the facilitator of a conversation that might not have happened otherwise. Person-to-person dialogue like this is a core tool for social change – it’s how ideas spread and movements grow, one discussion at a time.

Face-to-Face vs. Online: Making Connections

In today’s world, conversations don’t only happen in person. Digital tools and social media are a big part of how young people communicate about climate change. In fact, a recent survey found that 56% of teens (ages 14 to 18) learn about climate change through platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram (6). That means more than half of young people are getting climate info and ideas from social media! Online platforms can be powerful for sharing your message and finding an audience. Maybe you create a TikTok video explaining something you learned about climate solutions, or you post an Instagram story about a climate strike you attended. These can reach hundreds or thousands of people – far more than you might chat with face-to-face. Social media is also a place where youth activists like Xiye Bastida and Autumn Peltier amplify their voices; following such figures can inform and inspire you, and sharing their content can spread awareness.

However, it’s important to use social media thoughtfully. Online discussions can sometimes get heated or slide into misunderstandings because you don’t have the benefit of tone of voice or facial expressions. When you engage digitally, try to carry the same principles of empathy and respect. If someone leaves a skeptical comment on your post, you could reply kindly with facts or ask what they think, rather than snapping back. Also, remember the earlier point about misinformation – social media has tons of content, not all of it reliable. If you’re citing facts in an online post or argument, make sure you got them from a trustworthy source (and consider providing a source link if possible). By being a responsible digital communicator, you help set a positive tone. For example, you might use your platform to share positive stories of climate action or to highlight community solutions, not just scary predictions. This approach can inspire your followers and show that talking about climate is not about blaming or shaming, but about learning and working together.

Despite the reach of social media, don’t underestimate the value of face-to-face conversations. A heartfelt discussion around a campfire, in the school hallway, or at the dinner table can sometimes change minds in a way that a tweet never will. In person, people can see your genuine passion and sincerity. You can also gauge their reactions and adjust your approach in real time – something that’s harder to do online. If someone looks confused, you can pause and clarify. If they seem upset, you can acknowledge that emotion and maybe give a reassuring smile or pat. These human elements of communication are powerful. Person-to-person dialogue also tends to build trust more effectively. Think about it: are you more likely to be convinced by a random online comment or by a thoughtful chat with someone you know? The latter carries a personal connection that can really open hearts and minds.

The good news is, you don’t have to choose one or the other. Combine your approaches. You might start a conversation in person and then continue it online by sharing an article link via text. Or vice versa: maybe you post something on social media and a friend DMs you with questions, leading to a coffee chat later. Use digital tools to support your face-to-face efforts. For example, creating a group chat for your eco-club can keep the momentum going between meetings, or starting a hashtag for your school’s sustainability initiative can pull in more participants for real-world events. By blending both worlds, you maximize your impact. You raise awareness broadly through digital means, and you deepen understanding through personal dialogue. Both are important in the climate movement. Just remember, whether online or offline, the core of your message and approach stays the same: be informed, be respectful, be empathetic, and be hopeful.

Guided by Respect and Culture

As you prepare to talk about climate change, grounding yourself in values of respect and cultural understanding will make your conversations richer and more inclusive. Climate change affects everyone, but not everyone talks about it in the same way. Our cultural backgrounds and personal experiences shape how we understand and discuss the issue. Being mindful of this can help you approach each conversation with sensitivity.

One especially important perspective is that of Indigenous peoples, who have been caring for the land for millennia. Indigenous knowledge systems bring a holistic view to environmental issues – seeing humans, animals, plants, and the land as deeply interconnected. Indigenous communities often emphasize values like respect, reciprocity, and responsibility to future generations (7). For example, many Indigenous cultures hold the principle of intergenerational equity: the idea that we borrow the Earth from future generations, and we must consider how our actions will affect those yet to come (7). They also recognize nature as an integral part of identity – meaning if the land is hurting, the people hurt too (7). These values can be powerful guides for any climate conversation. You don’t have to be Indigenous to appreciate and invoke these principles. You might say, for instance, “I think we have a responsibility to our kids and grandkids to take care of the planet,” or “We’re all connected to nature, so protecting it is really about protecting ourselves.” Such values-based statements often resonate across cultural lines because they speak to common human ethics.

Additionally, Indigenous communication traditions can inspire how we conduct conversations. Many Indigenous communities prioritize storytelling, listening, and consensus-building in their discussions (5) (5). Instead of a debate, a climate conversation can be a story-sharing circle: each person shares what they know or feel, and everyone listens respectfully, perhaps guided by an elder or a facilitator figure. You can bring a bit of this spirit into your own talks. Try framing the conversation as a mutual exchange: “I’d love to hear what you think as well.” If you’re leading a group discussion, you could set a simple guideline like “let’s make sure everyone gets a chance to speak” or open with a short personal story to set a welcoming tone. By doing so, you honor a more inclusive and respectful way of communicating – one that values each person’s voice.

It’s also helpful to acknowledge and respect cultural differences in environmental perspectives. Some cultures might talk about climate change in terms of duty to the community, others in terms of faith or spiritual stewardship, and others in terms of economics and survival. All these angles are valid. If you’re speaking with someone from a different background, be curious and open to learning how they see the issue. They might have proverbs, traditions, or community practices related to caring for the earth that you can learn from. For example, you might learn about the concept of “Seven Generation Stewardship” (thinking about impacts seven generations ahead) from Haudenosaunee teachings, or how some Métis or Inuit communities observe changes on the land. Mentioning these in conversation – “I heard an Elder say something really wise about thinking ahead to future generations…” – can bring depth and humility to your discussion. It shows you appreciate that climate action isn’t a new fad; it’s building on the wisdom of those who came before us.

Lastly, be respectful in tone. Climate change can be polarizing, and in any culture, no one responds well to being talked down to or judged. Approach others as partners in dialogue, not as opponents or as ignorant. If someone has cultural or personal reasons for certain beliefs (for example, a reliance on oil jobs in their region, or a worldview that “nature will heal itself”), try to understand where they’re coming from. You can gently share your perspective while honoring theirs: “I respect that protecting jobs is important. I also worry that if we don’t plan for new kinds of jobs in clean energy, we’ll face worse problems. Maybe we can do both – protect people’s livelihoods and the planet.” This kind of respectful bridge-building makes it more likely the conversation will stay constructive. It’s about finding common values. Often, if you dig deep enough, we all value things like health, security, family, and community. Framing climate change as relevant to those shared values (rather than a battle of ideologies) is a respectful strategy that tends to bring people together.