Communications medley: A car-free future and the impacts of extreme weather on climate opinion

In this week’s round up: How millennials are thinking about transportation, Americans' view environment more important than growth and the impacts of recent weather events on public perception of climate change.

If you’re a science communicator or educator at an informal science center (such as a zoo, aquarium, or museum) trying to understand the perspectives of your audience and find ways to promote conservation action – this is the round up for you! Every week we break down the most interesting recent news and best resources to help you frame the issues as effectively as possible. Some of these resources will be practical communications and framing tips, and others are great starting points for brainstorming future strategies.

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Millennials go car-free

Millennials Don't Care About Owning Cars, and Car Manufacturers Can't Figure Out Why - From 2007 to 2011, car purchases by ages 18-34 fell by 30%! This article by Darren Ross describes how millennials are choosing not to own cars and why car manufacturers can't figure it out.

What we can learn from millennials who opt out of driving - Are young people becoming more aware of the high costs of driving? This article takes a closer look at why millennials are opting out of driving and the lessons that we can learn.

American's choose environment

American's Again Pick Environment Over Economic Growth - A recent Gallup poll has demonstrated the largest partisan gap over priority ever recorded! The Gallup poll shows that American's choose the environment over economic growth by a healthy margin, particularly among ages 18-29.

The impact of extreme weather

Natural Disaster's Play a Significant Role in American's Climate Opinions - According to a  2014 Gibbs & Soell Sense & Sustainability® Study, 60% of American's attribute climate change to human actions.

Can Extreme Weather Build Support for Climate Solutions - In the wake of extreme weather conditions, climate communicators strive to find ways to communicate the importance of recognizing the impacts of climate change. This article provides six key talking points for climate communicators on how to engage your audience effectively.