Climate Communications Trends to Watch

From COP28 to upcoming elections to parenting in the climate crisis, climate change seems to be everywhere — and that won’t change anytime soon.

As world leaders gather in Dubai for the UN climate conference — COP28 — a new UN report warns that we are on track to warm nearly 3 degrees Celsius within the century, substantially missing the 1.5-degree goal of the Paris Agreement. If this were to happen, scientists report we could reach a “point of no return” with catastrophic results. Within this context, it’s more important than ever that we get climate communications right.

To help clients make sense of this complex landscape and navigate it successfully, here are three key trends we’re watching:

• Climate commitments are out, actions are in: Members of the climate community are increasingly skeptical and fatigued by ambitious climate pledges. Instead, they’re yearning for proven actions. As brands seek to communicate about climate change, lead with progress you’ve made to grow credibility that you can achieve ambitious progress.
• Climate is multidimensional: As a changing climate affects every aspect of life, conversations around climate change are growing increasingly dynamic — with outlets focusing on topics such as how to parent in a climate crisis, dealing with the mental health strains of working in environmental sustainability and shining a light on queer climate activists. This further exemplifies there is a plethora of ways for organizations and brands to participate in climate conversations productively by looking at climate through new and diverse lenses such as culture, health and inclusion.
• Climate is on the ballot (and the court of public opinion): Around the world, climate issues will increasingly impact elections. In the next presidential election cycle in the U.S., climate activism will shape the debate and be top of mind for many voters — especially among younger generations. Stakeholders expect climate leadership by government and business leaders, but in a polarized political context every climate word and deed will be scrutinized.

While navigating climate communications can seem like a daunting task, it’s never been more important to get it right. Together, we can make a positive impact for generations to come.

By Sam Tatham, Senior Manager, Social Impact & Sustainability