Why We Don’t Need To ‘Trust’ Climate Scientists

We don’t need everyone to trust climate change science to take the necessary action: uniting values is more important.

Last week, I published a story about why some people are reluctant to trust climate scientists. I explained how the science I publish on the topic is usually closely scrutinized for replicability and authenticity.

I also discussed how the scientific method we follow to publish our research is designed to ensure the data is properly collected, analyzed, and evaluated. Therefore, getting something “false” published in a peer-reviewed journal would be very hard. Whereas thousands of research papers have repeatedly been published supporting the same conclusion: climate change is happening, and human-induced greenhouse gases are to blame.

I understand that some people in the non-scientific community may be reluctant to accept our science because they ultimately don’t know what goes behind it. However, I was hopeful that understanding this would make people think.

And by all means, it did. I got some very sweet messages from people who thanked me for what I said. They didn’t know how scientific research worked, and our explanation helped them trust us better.

But unfortunately, some people showered us with even more skepticism. We wish we could give a lecture explaining the ins and outs of climate change research in detail, but understanding some of the methods and why they are, in fact, robust requires a strong scientific, biological, and statistical background.

I will be honest; we know that we can’t convince everybody. That’s not the reason we wrote the piece. I just wanted to provide transparency into our worlds for those willing to listen. I know how hard it is to change people’s minds when you threaten their belief systems. I read about it in the scientific literature.

Does this mean we are out of hope to build a more sustainable and resilient society? Absolutely not. People may think that climate change is happening or not. They may or may not trust that human-induced greenhouse gases, combined with other destructive practices such as massive deforestation, threaten the planet.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t take action to mitigate the effects of climate change. We believe we can still implement policies and change, highlighting the issues that matter to everybody, whether they trust climate change science or not. Even if that means never saying “climate change”.

Regarding climate change solutions and advocacy, we must acknowledge the diverse perspectives shaping our approach to climate change. We won’t get anywhere unless most people unite to take meaningful action. And alienating others for their political views won’t get us far.

As a quantitative ecologist familiar with social differences, I understand how misconceptions can shape people’s perceptions of an issue. For example, someone once told me that nobody thought climate change was even a threat before Greta Thunberg became famous for her activist endeavors. I had to show them all the research and protests from before she was born and point out all the agreements that were signed before she could even speak.

In that case, providing tangible facts was enough to prove their perception wrong respectfully, to transform them from critics to open-minded listeners. However, as I have discussed above, that won’t always be the case. Even when providing facts, we may face skepticism.

I know that the climate change issue has now moved to the partisan realm and that some political parties are using it to further their agendas. However, if we want to make meaningful change, we need to strive to move our climate change solutions away from a partisan lens.

For example, see the chart from Pew Research below:

As we can see here, policies aimed at reducing the effects of global climate change have support from both liberal and conservative voters in the United States. In fact, according to the research conducted by the authors, Two-Thirds of Americans Think Government Should Do More on Climate.

Natural resource conservation, responsible resource management, and a desire for a sustainable future are principles that resonate with most people across political lines. Not just liberals.

By framing the conversation around these common goals, we can create a space where everyone can actively contribute without compromising their values or belief systems, regardless of their political or religious views.

On the other hand, highlighting success stories within the most skeptical or conservative communities can also be a powerful tool. Many conservative groups are already making strides in sustainable practices, showcasing that environmental stewardship is not exclusive to any ideology.

For example, the non-profit Citizens’ Climate Lobby dedicates great efforts to finding these common grounds. They even have a blog highlighting the issues that resonate with both liberals and conservatives, giving a special voice to the latter.

By spotlighting these initiatives, we can inspire others to take meaningful action regardless of their political views. Everybody likes clean air and crystal-clear waters. Most people enjoy nature and being outdoors. Can we reframe the actions in that direction?

Another strategy would be to focus on the economic opportunities the shift toward sustainability presents. Emphasizing the potential for job creation, innovation, and economic growth within environmentally friendly industries can appeal to conservative values rooted in fiscal responsibility and free-market principles.

Finally, sensible communication is key. Try to foster open dialogue instead of approaching the conversation as a debate. Actively listen to concerns and address them with facts and evidence.

This article offers ideas on approaching loved ones with different views. As always, love, compassion, and communication win.

Fighting With a Family Member Over Politics? Try These 4 Steps

Experts offer tips for a productive conversation

My favorite is always to listen first. Find out what other people are concerned about and explain easily how a certain climate solution may help with it. Just remember to avoid the words “climate change,” as they can carry a lot of stigma.

For example, if they are worried about their elder parent battling respiratory issues, bring up how electric cars and e-bikes are helping with cleaner air. Respectful and sometimes indirect discourse can break down barriers and build bridges, fostering a shared commitment to safeguarding our planet, regardless of our political opinions, values, or religious views.

Keep communicating

The fight against climate change is a collective effort and need that should transcend political and religious boundaries.

By finding common ground, emphasizing shared values, and fostering open communication, we can unite people from all walks of life and have a greater impact if we pursue a sustainable and resilient future.

Alienating or disrespecting people whose belief systems prevent them from accepting facts or those who come up with theories that haven’t been proven with empirical data won’t take us anywhere. No matter how crazy and nonsense their conspiracy theories may sound to us. Remember, we are fighting for a more sustainable planet, not a bigger ego.

We don’t need people to admit we are right; we need them to adopt cleaner solutions before it is too late.