The Problem
The environmental movement is at a critical crossroads, not only in terms of the climate crisis itself, but in how we communicate and engage the public around it. Much of the current environmental discourse is dominated by complex, doom focused narratives that leave people feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and powerless. This flood of negative information, while rooted in real urgency, often pushes people into a state of paralysis rather than action. As the World Economic Forum has stated, “We can't afford to lose optimism over averting the worst consequences of this crisis; without it, we are trapped in a trauma response of inaction.” Climate anxiety is real and growing, especially among younger generations with a recent poll finding that 85% are concerned about the climate crisis, and it disproportionately affects those already impacted by environmental injustice. THE was created to disrupt this cycle by offering an alternative: a space where people can stay informed and inspired. Our project addresses the urgent need for accessible environmental communication via two distinct formats: a podcast for listeners to hear directly from experts in the field, and via an online publication that will provide insightful stories of hope, information and ideas on how to take positive action. By using clear, engaging language, uplifting stories, and calls to action that are realistic and tangible, we’re working to make the climate conversation more approachable and empowering. This is not just about making people feel better; it’s about activating a broader, more diverse coalition of people who feel capable of taking part in climate solutions. Hope is not a passive emotion, it is a strategy for resilience and change. THE exists to turn that strategy into a movement, where information, community, and action come together to advance both environmental and social justice.
