By Andy Vermaut
The EU Climate Pact Ambassadors gathered to delve deeply into the theme of climate conversations and explore the art of effective communication on climate change. This meeting, an initiative of the Belgian Climate Pact Secretariat led in collaboration with KlimaatContact and supported by Channa Chattoir of Climate Alliance, focused on empowering the ambassadors with the knowledge and skills to have positive and connecting conversations about the climate. Through a series of workshops offered throughout Flanders, participants are made aware not only of their ecological footprint, but also of the positive impact they can have – their ‘handprint’. The workshops highlight various aspects of daily life, from living and eating to traveling and consuming, and offer practical insights for a more sustainable existence. This initiative, led by Chattoir’s inspiring leadership, aims to normalize climate-friendly choices and stimulate a movement of change and cooperation in the fight against climate change.
Brussels, Mundo Troon, March 20, 2024, 14:00 am – The ambassadors of the climate pact met today at the invitation of the Climate Alliance, Climate Contact and the European Commission. This important event symbolizes a refreshing approach to how we as a society communicate about climate change. The goal: to promote a constructive dialogue that goes beyond traditional debates.
Add a personal touch to the conversation
Rather than getting stuck in endless discussions that are often more divisive than bridge-building, the initiative emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories. By sharing our own experiences and insights, we open the door to a more empathetic and cordial exchange of ideas.
The art of listening
Another key to successful climate conversations is genuine curiosity and the ability to really listen to what others have to say. The point is not to prepare our next point while the other person is still speaking, but to be fully present and give the other person the space to tell his or her story.
Resistance like a dance
When we encounter resistance or objections, our natural tendency is to become defensive. The event in Brussels proposes an alternative approach: moving with the resistance. This means finding common ground, even if it is small, and continuing the conversation from there.
Recognition of conflict
Recognizing our own ambivalence can significantly enrich a conversation. It’s okay to admit that we don’t always have the answers or live perfectly according to our ideals. This makes the conversation more human and accessible.
Be patient
You don’t force change; it’s like planting a seed that takes time to grow. By setting modest goals for our conversations, such as simply having an enjoyable conversation, we lay the foundation for future insights and changes.
Self-care
Finally, in the face of a challenge as big as the climate crisis, it is essential to take care of ourselves. This sometimes means choosing not to have a conversation when it’s not the right time, and focusing on what we can contribute without overburdening ourselves.
In essence
This meeting in Brussels underlines the importance of a renewed approach in how we talk about climate change. By sharing personal stories, truly listening, accepting resistance, acknowledging our own doubts, being patient, and taking good care of ourselves, we can build a foundation for deep and meaningful conversations.
Connection at the heart of climate change
In a world where climate change is no longer in the distance, but knocking at our front door, KlimaatContact is launching a series of workshops that shed new light on how we communicate and act about this. These initiatives, spread throughout Flanders, invite a dialogue that goes beyond the traditional debate.
From care to action
The six-part workshop series of KlimaatContact is an invitation to everyone who no longer sees climate change as a distant show, but as an urgent call to action. Participants are taken on a journey that makes them aware not only of their ‘footprint’ but also of their ‘handprint’ – the positive influence they can have on their environment. What is unique about this series is the focus on having positive and connecting conversations about the climate, without prior knowledge being required.
A look at the workshops
Each workshop delves into a different aspect of daily life and its influence on the climate. From the way we live, eat, and travel, to how we consume and talk to others about climate change. The workshops provide a platform for reflection, discussion, and above all, for finding practical and achievable steps that everyone can take towards a more climate-friendly existence.
Climate conversations as the key
The end goal is not only to increase knowledge about climate change, but also to learn skills to have effective and hopeful conversations. With this, KlimaatContact wants to equip participants to further spread the message themselves and create a ripple effect. The workshops are designed to break through clichés and defensive reactions and replace them with a dialogue that inspires and connects.
Stronger together
These initiatives emphasize that no one stands alone in the fight against climate change. By joining forces and learning together, confidence grows that change is possible. KlimaatContact offers not only a series of workshops, but also a community where everyone is welcome to participate, learn and inspire.
Become a climate coach yourself
For those who want to go one step further, KlimaatContact offers the opportunity to become a climate coach themselves. This unique opportunity allows individuals to lead their own workshops, using the methods and materials of internationally recognized organizations such as Carbon Conversations International and KlimaatGespreken Nederland.
A new normal
KlimaatContact strives to make climate-friendly choices the new normal. By offering workshops and training throughout Flanders, the organization hopes to unleash a wave of positive change.
Thanks to Channa Chattoir from Climate Alliance, who as Belgian country coordinator for the Climate Pact plays a crucial role in uniting forces against climate change, she brought us closer to the series of KlimaatContact workshops that in themselves lead us to a new path for sustainable action . Her dedication and insight are the foundation on which these initiatives are built, reinforcing the message that every individual effort counts. Channa’s leadership and vision are inspiring a new generation of Climate Pact ambassadors to join the movement for a greener future. Her incredible contribution to the Climate Pact is a reminder of the power of collaboration and innovation in the fight against climate change.