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Climate
Communication

Climate "Hackathon"
 

On March 26, 2021, the RAPID Climate Action Network hosted a half-day Hackathon to bring 40 people representing local and regional governments, professionals, businesses, and nonprofits together to work through one of the most challenging areas in Climate Action - communications.

Purpose and Need

We have the technical capabilities and resources to address climate change - but we are missing the political and social will to make the aggressive changes necessary. 

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We identified the need to surgically dissect common "stuck points" for local government staff and nonprofits and develop a communication strategy to empower, influence, and build advocacy with decision-makers, community members, and others.

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We hear that people are ready for change and then... (Pick your favorite excuse)

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  • It is not a good time.

  • It is going to cost too much.

  • I would do it, but the board/constituents/shareholders don't agree.

  • I need some more data.

  • We really need to work on (insert other priority) right now.

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Our Current Approach is Not Working! 

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  • Fear has only short-term, attention-grabbing potential

  • There are not two-sides. Climate change is happening and we have to stop apologizing.

  • We lack a common language to discuss climate change.

  • Science data helpful, but it is intimidating and too vague for most people.

  • Images of far away impacts do not resonate with people.

The Solution

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  1. Climate change will alter everything about our lives and children’s lives.
    Doing nothing is like throwing ourselves out of a plane without a parachute.
     
  2. We have the ability TODAY to make a difference.
    The technical know-how is available now –we just need the social and political support to do it.
     
  3. We cannot wait to act.
    10-20 years is too late for meaningful change.
     
  4. We have a choice about how we live, recreate, commute, and connect.
    Demand that politicians support that choice.
     
  5. Aggressive climate action equals better health, communities, and the future.
    If we are proactive, we can protect what we love.
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Implement The Five Truths into communication! 

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