The climate agenda has gone mainstream — but its core narrative often remains stuck in crisis mode. Public debate still leans heavily on fear, sacrifice and technical fixes, while overlooking the social realities of climate change and the broader benefits of sustainable transformation. This not only limits engagement but can deepen polarisation and leave disadvantaged communities behind.

Our presentation at the Tropentag 2023 argues for a different story: one that frames climate action through social justice, inclusion and shared opportunity. Instead of asking people to rally around catastrophe, we explore how hopeful visions of the future can build self-efficacy, strengthen participation and create wider support for change across generations, regions and sectors.

At the heart of our approach is the idea of a new social contract — one that connects sustainability with fairness, wellbeing and democratic inclusion. Drawing on insights from research and NGO practice, we show how human-centred issues such as food systems can open more relatable, equitable and motivating pathways into climate engagement.

Our key insight: Climate action gains power when it is communicated not only as an environmental necessity, but as a chance to build a more just and liveable future. By shifting the narrative from loss to possibility, we can expand the social mandate for sustainability and unlock more inclusive pathways to transformation.

Details: 

• Date: 20-22/09/2023  

• Location: Humboldt Universität | Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin

More Information: https://www.tropentag.de/2023/abstracts/links/Bischofberger_0PGGZMNV.php