From “Climate Change” to “Climate Crisis"

Food for Thought with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau

Language doesn’t simply describe reality—it shapes how we see it, how we feel about it, and whether we act. The words we use around climate aren’t neutral: they can spark urgency, create fatigue, or open the door to hope.

Research shows that familiar terms like climate change and global warming elicit more urgency and willingness to act than newer, heavier terms like climate crisis or climate emergency.

In this episode of Food for Thought, I explore which words inspire, which ones backfire, and how choosing clearer, calmer language can move people toward solutions.

(A written version of this episode can be found at colleenpatrickgoudreau.com)

🎧 Listen in to learn how the words we choose can either keep people stuck in fear or move them toward meaningful action. You can also watch it as a YouTube video, as well!

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