Straight Talking Sustainability

See it, Say it, Sort it

October 19, 2026·21 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

When did climate change become awkward to talk about? This episode explores the gap between what people think others believe and what people actually support, arguing that silence can make climate action seem more divisive than it is.The episode is a spin on the famous Transport for London prompt: see it, say it, sorted.In this episodeReflections from the Blue Earth Summit, including an unexpected conference sauna 00:26Why words like “polarised” and “divisive” have entered the climate conversation 01:53The gap between public concern about climate change and the noisy minority opposing action 04:07Why net zero isn’t a purely political or “green” issue 05:02How green hushing and cautious corporate messaging create a “sea of sameness” 07:57Why employees take cues from what leaders do and don’t say 09:03The responsibility of sustainability professionals to challenge silence around climate change 10:39Moving from “Do I have permission?” to “It’s my responsibility” 11:31Why stories and conversations may be more effective than repeatedly building the business case 12:11A practical exercise for revealing how much support for climate action exists in a room 15:09How sharing knowledge can help people feel informed, confident and empowered 19:38Key takeawayMost people care about clean air, nature, food prices and their children’s futures, but many have never been asked. When sustainability professionals spot the silence, start the conversation and share compelling stories, climate action becomes easier to discuss.“It’s only as divisive as our silence allows it to be.” 21:14Conversation promptsWhere has climate change disappeared from conversations in your organisation?Are people mistaking loud opposition for widespread disagreement?What story could you share instead of another target, KPI or statistic?What would help colleagues feel safer and more confident talking about climate change?Book a Power Hour with Emmahttps://calendly.com/emma-lighthouse/power-hourConnect with EmmaWebsiteEmailEmma Burlow | LinkedInNot Sustainable

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