On February 26, 2025, the Yale Center for Environmental Communication hosted a panel discussion on the power of incorporating climate solutions in storytelling and journalism. Moderated by Erika Street Hopman, producer of the Yale Climate Connections radio program, the session explored how to amplify effective climate solutions, counter defeatist narratives, engage diverse audiences, and help people connect individual and collective actions to broader change. The speakers included Dr. Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson, Director of Indigenous Climate Journalism at New Narratives, Alex Amend, Director of Communications at Rewiring America, and Thelma Young Lutunatabua, Senior Manager of Narrative Strategies at The Solutions Project.
Erika Street Hopman, the moderator, set the stage by emphasizing the importance of narratives in creating cultural shifts and engaging diverse audiences, including those who may not usually hear about climate change. Through their radio program and Climate Solutions Hub, Yale Climate Connections aims to reach these groups and inspire individual and collective action by focusing on effective storytelling that spans a range of voices and experiences .
Dr. Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson, an indigenous climate journalist, shared insights from her extensive experience reporting on climate issues in the Pacific Islands. She highlighted the existential threat that climate change poses to these regions and emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge and storytelling in crafting climate solutions. Jackson noted that Pacific Islanders’ deep connection to their environment and strong community bonds play a crucial role in developing and implementing effective climate strategies. She also underscored the value of local journalists in accurately conveying these stories, as they possess a nuanced understanding of their communities’ cultural and linguistic contexts.
Alex Amend and Thelma Young Lutunatabua added to the discussion by focusing on the role of community-driven initiatives and the power of electrification in addressing climate change. Amend described the mission of Rewiring America, a nonprofit dedicated to electrifying homes and communities to reduce emissions and save costs for households. He stressed the importance of making climate solutions accessible and desirable to everyday people. Lutunatabua, representing The Solutions Project, highlighted community-led climate justice solutions that address not only environmental but also social issues. Both speakers emphasized the need for storytelling that highlights the immediate, tangible benefits of climate solutions to inspire widespread adoption and engagement .