Why We Start Here

The first step in the climate journey process is to discover what truly matters to your community members and why. By starting with conversations, we lay the groundwork for a climate action plan that is rooted in local realities and concerns. This approach ensures that the strategies we develop are relevant and supported by the community, making them more likely to succeed. Engaging the community early on also builds trust and demonstrates our commitment to addressing their specific needs and challenges.

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The Power of Stories and Games in Learning

Research indicates that stories are more effective than raw data in fostering learning and retention. Humans naturally connect with stories, making them a powerful tool for conveying complex issues like climate change. Studies have shown that personal stories can increase empathy and understanding, making it easier for people to grasp the importance of climate action. For example, sharing a story about a local farmer affected by changing weather patterns can resonate more deeply than presenting abstract data about climate change.

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Additionally, incorporating games into the engagement process can make learning about climate issues more interactive and enjoyable. Games can simulate real-life scenarios, allowing participants to explore the impact of their decisions in a risk-free environment. This hands-on approach can lead to a deeper understanding of climate challenges and potential solutions.

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Implementing Stories and Games to Gather Community Feedback

At CIW, we utilize a variety of interactive methods to engage with community members and gather their feedback. These include:

Surveys: Surveys allow us to gather structured feedback from a broad segment of the community. We design our surveys to be concise and targeted, ensuring we collect relevant data on specific concerns and suggestions.

Newsletters and Social Media Campaigns: Regular newsletters and social media updates keep the community informed and engaged. These channels also provide opportunities for residents to share their thoughts and participate in discussions.

In-person Events and Forums: In-person events, such as town hall meetings and community forums, are essential for fostering deeper conversations. These events include interactive activities like climate games and story-sharing sessions, allowing participants to express their views and learn from one another.

Games: Using games breaks the ice to get people starting to discuss what climate impacts they’ve noticed.

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Addressing Climate Skepticism

In your conversations, you might encounter individuals who do not believe in climate science. At this stage, it’s crucial to listen and understand their perspectives without judgment. The goal is to gather comprehensive insights into the community’s views. Engaging skeptics with empathy can pave the way for more constructive dialogues in future steps.

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Instead of attempting to change their minds immediately, focus on understanding the underlying reasons for their skepticism. Ask open-ended questions to explore their viewpoints and concerns. This approach not only shows respect for their opinions but also provides valuable information that can inform future engagement strategies.

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By starting with meaningful conversations and interactive engagement, you set the stage for a collaborative and effective climate action plan that resonates with the community’s values and concerns. This foundational step ensures that the climate action strategies are not only scientifically sound but also socially inclusive and community-driven.

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Key Questions to Ask

To understand the community's perspective on climate and sustainability, consider asking the following questions. Turn this into a survey you host on your website or that you conduct in-person at events,