When I left the two day dedication to USF’s new School for Global Sustainability, my first thought was how lucky we are to have this program in our region.
Creative Loafing bloggers gave a thorough intro and comprehensive overview of the speakers and panel discussions.
Glaciologist Lonnie Thompson PhD, one of the keynotes, was interviewed by Mitch Perry who did an excellent job of covering Thompson’s main points. Dr. Thompson summarized his talk, saying that society has three options: 1. prevention; 2. adaptation; or 3. suffering. He and most of the other scientists claim to be good at what they do – science. What they don’t know how to do is to communicate what they know. Dr Mark Stewart of USF’s Geology Department said, “Scientists need help. Help us communicate.”
Language is not only important. It can work for ya’ or against ya’. That’s why, conservatives and Republicans, including Newt Gingrich and George Bush, have turned to Frank Luntz to host focus groups and come up with killer language to use against the Democrats. Well, Frank Luntz has now converted to green by "coaching Republicans on how to win the environmental messaging war." Whether you’re running for office or not, be sure to check out his report on the Language of Clean Energy Economy. The better we can deliver messages about green and sustainability, the better for everyone.
That brings me to my second thought after the USF School of Global Sustainability dedication. Fox News is irresponsible.
This article appears in Feb 24 – Mar 2, 2010.