‘Saving Us’: A cure for climate change

Reading articles, novels, stories and textbooks for various classes is routine for us Vassar students. It seems as though regardless of what class you take, there is an accompanying reading due for the next lecture. Although we may find some texts difficult to get through, I am certain we all have that one book or article that sticks with us long after finishing it. For me, this book is “Saving Us” by Katherine Hayhoe, an atmospheric climate scientist whose research focuses on the effects of climate change on society.

I was introduced to the novel in my Environmental Studies 107 class, Global Change and Sustainability. I can not deny that when I saw the book on the schedule, I was appalled to see a 320-page book assigned for next week’s lecture, despite my professor’s multiple reminders to begin the novel early. To say that I began reading the book with a sense of dread and stress was an understatement—I went into it with a closed mind, rushing to finish it. However, it was difficult to read with disinterest. Early in the non-fiction book, I saw my worries regarding climate change being addressed. It was as if my thoughts were being read: Why and when did the topic of climate change become so polarized? Why do some people deny proven facts? Why are some concerned but not doing anything? Above all, how can we ignite change despite living in such an environmentally despondent time?

To Hayhoe, conversation is the key to change. She explains how we are all drawn to stories and experiences; and for those who are passionate about global climate change, sharing this information feels—and undeniably is—necessary. 

Hayhoe states that the reason why the topic of climate crisis has become so polarized in American culture stems from a fear of change; namely because so much in our society is already changing so fast, it encourages people to cling closer to the social circles they are most comfortable with. She underscores this by saying the majority of the polarization occurring between those who want to act against the climate crisis and those who deny it is emotional. She sheds light on an experiment: “When [people were asked] what they thought of an issue then told their political party thought something different about it, many immediately changed their opinions,” reemphasizing the fact that so much of this divide is an issue of emotional community. 

Furthermore, Hayhoe brings up that only seven percent of Americans adamantly deny that climate change is a reality. This means that the other 93 percent are either activists, believers, perhaps doubtful or disengaged. Whether or not these individuals choose to take a stand against the climate crisis, an overwhelming majority of people can agree that our Earth is changing and that the negative effects are noticeable. So then, why are people still hesitant to take action? Why are some disengaged and doubtful? It depends on individual social circles and the news, or lack thereof, that we surround ourselves with. 

Due to the communities we surround ourselves with, you can see why the social aspect of calling people to climate action is so important. Although issues may seem black and white, they clearly aren’t. There is a significant overlap that cuts through political boundaries. It means that we have the power to mobilize over 90 percent of Americans to do something, to get them to fight against issues perpetuating warming, advocate for green policies and, at the very least, approach the issue with an open mind. 

It would be idyllic to say that changing people’s minds is easy, though. However, it is our involvement and alignment across different communities that makes us unique individuals. We have traits and passions we share with even the most doubtful individuals: Family, occupation, hometowns, food and culture are all examples of ways we connect with people without necessarily agreeing with their viewpoints. Through these overlapping interests, we have a window of opportunity to connect with others and discuss how climate change can negatively impact what we care about and how what we value is already threatened by rising global temperatures and unpredictable environmental calamities. 

Conversation with others, then, is the key to raising climate crisis awareness and action. Starting a conversation with an individual over a common interest and tying it to global warming and adjacent issues is the key to getting people to think more deeply about how climate change is altering their current lifestyle and the livelihood of the people they care most about.

Hayhoe also outlines what we should and should not aim to do in such a conversation. It is easy to get heated, distant, discouraged, angry or a mix of all when speaking with someone who can not seem to understand your viewpoint, but keep trying. This is Hayhoe’s message. She states that “No matter how carefully you prepare, there will still be conversations that don’t progress. But even some of them […] can take an unexpected turn”. She demonstrates how to act, giving suggestions to the reader on how to approach a conversation. First, it is crucial not to be overwhelmed with statistics. Yes, facts are concrete, undeniable sources of evidence for global warming, but numbers will mean close to nothing to a person who cares more about other factors or other data that could be used to support their opinions.The last thing we want is for someone who was open to fighting for change to feel discouraged, as if their actions would not amount to much anyway. Similarly, it is not effective to instill fear or guilt-trip the conversant, as it could increase defensiveness, vulnerability and feelings of disdain. So what are we supposed to do in this situation? Make it personal. Listen. Bond. Be hopeful and realistic. And inspire. Understand that conversations are meant to benefit both individuals, which Hayhoe emphasizes as an opportunity to grow. 

“Saving Us” serves as a reminder that even one person can make a difference. Our experiences hold the power to change the future, and, despite all else, our personal effort and vigor in climate action can serve as inspiration for others. Quoting Hayhoe, “We cannot afford to be paralyzed by fear or shame. We must act, with power, love, and a sound mind. Together, we can save ourselves.”