A leading marine biologist advocates for optimism in climate change discussions

Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a prominent climate activist and marine biologist, emphasizes the importance of cautious optimism and collective action in addressing the climate crisis.

David Marchese reports for The New York Times.


In short:

  • Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson promotes a hopeful outlook on climate change, focusing on actionable solutions.
  • Her upcoming book, "What if We Get It Right?" explores promising climate solutions through interviews with various leaders.
  • Johnson highlights the need for inclusive communication to engage diverse audiences in climate action.

Key quote:

“People don’t like sacrifice. People don’t like bans. But I think there’s a way to frame that as: This is an opportunity to live a different and better life.”

— Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, marine biologist and climate activist.

Why this matters:

Emphasizing positive, actionable steps can motivate more people to participate in climate solutions in meaningful ways, ultimately driving public engagement and policy support to mitigate global warming's impacts. Read more: Finding climate solutions in communities instead of labs.

Oil barrels on stacks of golden coins and oil pump jack with market price chart.
Credit: maxxyustas/BigStock Photo ID: 432132710

Watchdog groups urge Senate to investigate Samuel Alito over oil stock conflicts

Groups say supreme court justice, who owns stock in oil companies, may be violating ethics codes by participating in certain cases
Drones-eye view of a data center sited in rural farm country

An outpouring of frustration over Pennsylvania’s rapid data center growth

At an online town hall meeting, speakers said there’s too little transparency and too much state government support for the industry.
A row of solar panels in the foreground with wind turbines in the background

China goes electric, but can it get off coal?

The world's clean energy superpower also emits the most CO2. But coal-fired power may have peaked as China electrifies its economy with ever more renewables.
A worker installing solar panels on a roof

French and African leaders announce $11 billion in renewable energy for Africa

Leaders said the investments could help expand electricity access while positioning Africa as a major player in the global clean energy transition.

Upper floors of a multi-story apartment building. Climate friendly housing

The surprising climate fix Democrats and Republicans both love

Politicians across the spectrum want more housing. Apartments are a great answer, because they also slash carbon emissions in a big way.
A firefighter training a water hose on a wildfire

As property insurance crisis worsens, some lawmakers target Big Oil

Some state lawmakers are opening up a new line of attack in the effort to force oil companies to bear the cost of climate change effects.

A  view of the Eaton fire , looking towards the west coast from Koreatown, Los Angeles

The toxic aftermath of the L.A.-area fires: Why contamination is keeping people out of their homes

Since the Eaton Fire, Altadena residents have found hazardous substances such as lead and asbestos on their properties, fueling fear, conflict and a patchwork of emerging research.
From our Newsroom
Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro speaks with the state flag and American flag behind him.

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

silhouette of people holding hands by a lake at sunset

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

wildfire retardants being sprayed by plane

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.

Stay informed: sign up for The Daily Climate newsletter
Top news on climate impacts, solutions, politics, drivers. Delivered to your inbox week days.