The inspiration for this post was a chart (p 298) in Not the end of the world: How we can be the first generation to build a sustainable planet. by Hannah Ritchie, in which she includes climate change deniers among “those who are opposing environmental action”. As Ritchie explains earlier in the book, the overarching goal of environmental action is to build a sustainable planet where it is still possible to live a good life and “let wildlife flourish alongside us” (p 288).
Granted climate change skeptics are unlikely allies in the fight against climate change, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be allies for other environmental causes. One can doubt the existence or seriousness of climate change and still care about protecting wild habitat and endangered species. Why not?
The same point applies to members of the Republican party, home to many climate change skeptics:
…as well as many individuals who care about the environment:
And often these are the same people.
A couple years back, Pew research conducted in-depth interviews with climate change skeptics in the U.S.* In their report, Pew noted a “ common call across interviews was for actions to protect natural lands and waterways.” For example:
“I think it’s very important to not overdevelop so there’s still space for natural habitats so animals like foxes and predators don’t start going onto people’s homes and businesses. To have more plants and trees, more biodiversity is very important.” –Man, 20s, Midwest
“I think we should conserve where we can. I think we should protect endangered species, do some of the things we are doing, but I don’t think that includes eliminating fossil fuels or anything like that.” –Woman, 40s, Mountain West
“And it is so very important that we take care of our planet. Let’s not litter. Let’s have good clean water. Let’s not do anything that’s going to hurt our planet that we live in.” –Man, 50s, Coastal Florida.
There is no good reason Republicans and climate change skeptics can’t be part of a broader environment movement. Environmental activists and groups** should reach out.
——
* Specifically, “adults who view climate change as a lower priority and do not think the Earth is getting warmer primarily due to human activity were conducted virtually in May 2023 across five geographic areas [in the U.S.]”.
** At least those who can resist the urge to educate and “set straight” their new recruits. Find common ground and avoid commenting on the rest.
Reference:
In-depth interviews find some Americans consider crisis language overblown, leading to added skepticism of claims. By Giancarlo Pasquini, Alison Spencer, Alec Tyson and Cary Funk. Pew Research August 9, 2023