A Climate to Thrive, based in Mount Desert, is launching a statewide program to train Mainers to be climate ambassadors in their local communities.
The statewide Climate Ambassadors program, scheduled to begin Thursday, March 9, aims to help participants tap into their unique skills and networks to take meaningful climate action and inspire others to join them, according to a news release from Naomi Albert, project manager.
The virtual program is open to all Mainers free of charge.
The program harnesses the understanding that community members are the most effective messengers about climate change and solutions to their friends, neighbors, co-workers, employers and social networks. Designed for those seeking actionable knowledge, the program provides training on major drivers of climate change in Maine, high-impact greenhouse gas reduction strategies, and effective climate communication. Ambassadors will discover how to drive change using their unique skills, occupations and spheres of influence.
Meetings will take place from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursdays, March 9 through April 6, via Zoom.
The program is the expansion of a successful pilot on Mount Desert Island in fall 2022. The virtual format allows for dialogue across the state’s communities.
“Many people are deeply concerned about climate change but are unsure what to do about it,” said Johannah Blackman, executive director of A Climate to Thrive. “This program channels those feelings into action. One of the best things we can do to get started in climate action is to talk about it. People talking within their trust communities and sharing information and pathways to solutions is incredibly impactful.”
The program aims to inspire more productive, solutions-oriented climate conversations. Public opinion data shows that the majority of Americans are either alarmed or concerned about climate change, yet only 35 percent discuss it at least occasionally. While Climate Ambassadors will be armed with an understanding of climate science and solutions technologies, A Climate to Thrive says the program is oriented towards community building and empowerment.
“Our hope is that this program will empower community members to actively engage in building community-driven climate solutions,” said Albert, who designed the program.
Those interested in participating can apply at aclimatetothrive.org.
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