Empowering Climate Communicators: The Climate Consensus’s Role in Supporting Climate Engagement and Outreach

Due to an abundance of disinformation and common misconceptions about anthropogenic climate change, the idea of engaging with the public on this topic can be daunting for many. This has escalated the need for establishing safe environments where students and scientists with similar interests and motivations can convene, converse, and practice communication skills. The Climate Consensus is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works to inspire current and upcoming scientists to engage in climate outreach and dialog. This organization began as a grassroots effort, when students, faculty, and staff from multiple colleges and universities began practicing climate change communication and engaging with the community. The scope has broadened since transitioning to a nonprofit organization in 2021. The Climate Consensus is now a nationwide network of concerned and knowledgeable students and scientists spanning multiple fields and sectors.

With a goal to inform the public on the topic of anthropogenic climate change, this organization greatly benefits from collaborations amongst people with diverse careers and perspectives. This has led to shared resources, knowledge development, and a culture of support that encourages effective communication between scientists and the public. Ongoing and past engagement efforts include social media and blog posts, school visits, workshops, and relevant campus and community tabling at events. With the ability to receive grant and philanthropic support, we strive to position this young organization to award scholarships and provide aid to start, develop, and maintain local chapters. Instilling students and scientists with the resources and confidence to connect with others about science and our future, we have an immense opportunity to shape public opinion on this topic and motivate real action. This presentation will discuss The Climate Consensus’s history, vision for the future, and opportunities to get involved.