The holidays are a time for togetherness, warmth, and reflection. Families gather around festive meals, lights twinkle in every window, and the joy of giving fills the air. It is also a time to consider deeper values, caring for one another, protecting what we love, and creating a more hopeful future. While the holiday season is a great moment to celebrate the year gone by, it has a deeply detrimental impact on our climate story. This year, there’s one gift you can give that costs nothing but holds extraordinary power, a meaningful conversation about climate change.
Speak up, and others might too
For many, holiday gatherings come with an unspoken list of conversational “no-fly zones,” or topics we avoid to keep the peace. Climate change may feel like one of those issues, especially if opinions differ within the group. But avoiding the topic entirely contributes to what social scientists call the “Spiral of Silence,” the more we refrain from discussing something, the more isolated and unimportant it seems.
Research shows that many people care about climate change but rarely talk about it. Those who do engage in these conversations deepen their understanding of the issue and are more likely to support climate-friendly policies and take meaningful action. Conversations spark awareness and momentum, and they’re truly one of the simplest ways to make a difference.
Shared values allow for more understanding
Talking about climate change doesn’t have to mean debates or data-packed lectures. Instead, focus on shared values, love for family, concern for future generations, and pride in community. Climate change impacts everything we hold dear, from the natural beauty of winter landscapes to the stability of the world we’ll pass on to our children.
Start by asking questions and listening. What do your loved ones care most about? Is it preserving traditions, ensuring economic stability, or safeguarding health? These priorities can lead to discussions about how addressing climate change aligns with their values. For instance, someone passionate about saving money might appreciate learning how solar panels can lower utility bills.
Be the change you want to see, and talk about it too
One of the most powerful aspects of these discussions is their ripple effect. Research shows people are more likely to take climate action if they see their peers doing the same. This holiday season is the perfect time to explore opportunities by reducing food waste when planning festive meals, buying sustainable gifts and trying to minimise emissions from commute while meeting up with loved ones. By sharing your own experiences, you can inspire others. Authentic, personal stories often resonate more than abstract arguments or statistics.
The holidays remind us of the power of togetherness and the importance of caring for one another. Climate change is often portrayed as a momentous, abstract challenge, but it’s also deeply personal, and one we can all see ourselves in. By starting the conversation, we honor the season’s spirit, of hope, generosity, and action.
