Weathering the Climate Communication Storm (Invited)

I will discuss the continuing challenges climate scientists confront in efforts to communicate the science of climate change, and its implications for matters of mitigation and adaptation. Among these challenges is the existence of a well-funded and organized disinformation effort that aims to confuse the public about the nature of our scientific understanding. Despite these challenges, we must strive to communicate the science and its implications in plainspoken language that neither (a) insults the intelligence of our audience, (b) loses them in jargon and science-speak, nor (c) glosses over the real scientific uncertainties that remain. We must also maintain our composure and humor even in the face of the the most deceitful tactics used against us by our opposition. I will share insights that I have accumulated over the course of my own efforts at informing the public discourse, discussing some recent high profile with the climate change disinformation campaign.