By: Hana Katz, RNJCC Strategic Advisor
Don’t tune out! In New Jersey, environmental challenges like flooding, habitat loss, and pollution are definitely daunting and cause countless individuals to tune out from the cause. But this gives us the unique chance to inspire new action and reframe narratives around environmental issues.
I’m a strong believer in moving away from doom and gloom messaging and toward a more empowering, solution-oriented approach. By focusing on shared benefits, local successes, and achievable goals, we can build momentum for a better future. Positive environmental messaging is proven to be more effective at inspiring action than fear-based narratives, and hope motivates people to act for the long-term. If not, you risk getting burnt out on feelings of anxiety and despair. By framing projects like rewilding as opportunities to enhance both resilience and quality of life, leaders can shift public perception and inspire collaboration.
When discussing environmental issues, it’s critical to pair challenges with actionable solutions. Instead of emphasizing the risks of flooding, leaders can spotlight how green infrastructure—like rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavement—can mitigate those risks while beautifying neighborhoods. Also- doesn’t it feel good when you can beautify your property and help the environment at the same time? NJ cities like Hoboken and Camden have demonstrated the success of such approaches, using green infrastructure to manage stormwater, improve water quality, and create spaces for social connection and gathering.
Practical Tips:
1. Focus on Shared Benefits! Link environmental projects to outcomes that connect with the priorities of your community. We often cite economic growth, public safety, and improved health for example.
Instead of, “We need to address rising sea levels,” try, “We have the opportunity to protect our coastline and boost tourism through smart coastal planning.”
2. Celebrate Local Success Stories and Share Small Wins! Highlight achievements within your municipality or neighboring towns, get the word from the people involved. Break large goals into manageable milestones. Celebrate successes like the completion of a local rain garden, the planting of trees in a park, or the installation of solar panels on a municipal building. These achievements show that even small actions can make a big impact.
3. Use Language That Inspires Action: Avoid overwhelming residents with terms like “crisis” or “irreversible.” Instead, frame messages as opportunities. For example, replace, “Our water supply is at risk,” with, “We can secure clean water for generations by investing in green infrastructure today.”
By emphasizing tangible, inclusive, relevant benefits, municipalities can make abstract concepts like climate action feel immediate to residents’ lives.
Let’s get wild New Jersey!
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