Report Reveals Concern and Motivation to Engage, Offers Guidance
Today, ecoAmerica released a new report on African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino American attitudes, values, and motivations on climate change. The findings, additional insight from their American Climate Values Survey issued in March of this year, indicate that African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino Americans are slightly more convinced that climate change is happening (74%, 83%, and 73% respectively vs. 71% of Americans overall), and are ready and willing to be engaged on climate solutions (65%, 80%, and 70% respectively versus 60% of Americans overall).
The concern that "climate impacts are threatening our way of life" is a key issue for these groups.
"If we seek to make climate solutions a national priority, its time we recognize the true meaning of 'national.'" says Meighen Speiser, ecoAmerica's Chief Engagement Officer and co-author of the report. "To inspire and empower any American on climate change, we need to understand how they are understanding and relating to the issue and what is getting in the way of their participation in solutions. We conducted this research to deepen our knowledge, and for the benefit of all who are endeavoring to increase engagement of these important diverse communities."
The report's findings show several common concepts, values, and methods for engaging African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino Americans on climate change, however ecoAmerica warns against a one-size-fits-all program. There are also important distinctions, ranging from whom each of these groups trust most for guidance, to what solutions they resonate with, and where and how to engage them for greatest success.
"For too long, important communities have not been well included in the climate change dialogue or the design of climate solutions." Says Bob Perkowitz, ecoAmerica Founder and President. "African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino Americans are currently 37% of the U.S. population (U.S. Census Bureau, 2012). Their voices, ideas, and considerations are required for effective action on climate change. We hope this research will inspire and empower anyone working toward climate solutions to ensure their organizations, audiences, and initiatives engage the full representation of the American people."
