Sarah Ott once believed climate change was a hoax, but now she is passionate about the environment
Sarah Ott, a former climate change skeptic, shares her personal journey from doubting the science of climate change to becoming an advocate for clean energy and a teacher of climate science. Influenced by conservative media and her community, Ott’s perspective shifted when she encountered alternative viewpoints and evidence that challenged her previous beliefs. Her story highlights the importance of open-mindedness, critical thinking, and the power of personal transformation.
A Childhood Love for Nature and Initial Doubts
Sarah Ott’s upbringing in a Polish Catholic family with a strong connection to science and nature instilled in her a love for the environment from a young age. However, her exposure to conservative media and church groups led her to doubt the existence of climate change. Ott’s initial encounter with the term “climate change” in middle school left her feeling detached from its potential impact on her life.
Influence of Conservative Media and Doubts Strengthened
As Ott grew older, she married and moved to Georgia, where she spent hours at home listening to conservative radio, including controversial host Rush Limbaugh. Limbaugh’s denial of climate change further solidified Ott’s skepticism, especially when he discussed the Climategate controversy involving research from the University of East Anglia. The misinformation Ott encountered through these sources reinforced her conviction that climate change was a hoax.
A Turning Point and a New Perspective
During a period of postpartum depression and anxiety, Ott sought intellectual stimulation and tuned into NPR, a non-profit broadcaster. The alternative perspective presented by NPR challenged her previous beliefs and made her question the information she had been consuming. Ott realized that her social network had become limited to her church group, which held anti-intellectual views and did not align with her evolving perspective. The 2016 US presidential election served as a catalyst for Ott to distance herself from this group and seek new connections.
Embracing the Truth and Advocacy
Through her return to teaching and exposure to new ideas, Ott gradually shed her climate skepticism and embraced the reality of climate change. She became involved with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, a non-partisan group advocating for climate solutions, and led their North Georgia chapter. Ott also joined the National Center for Science Education, using her background in physical science to teach climate change to her teenage students. Admitting her previous skepticism was challenging, but Ott believes in setting an example and understanding others who may be on a similar journey.
Lessons Learned and Bridging Divides
Ott acknowledges the complexity of discussing climate change with those who still deny its existence. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with individuals through shared values, such as protecting future generations or advocating for energy independence. Having experienced her own transformation, Ott recognizes the need for empathy and understanding when engaging in conversations with climate skeptics. She believes that providing a soft place to land for those questioning their beliefs can be instrumental in facilitating change.
Conclusion:
Sarah Ott’s personal journey from climate change skeptic to advocate serves as a powerful example of the potential for personal growth and transformation. Her story highlights the importance of critical thinking, exposure to diverse perspectives, and the willingness to challenge one’s own beliefs. Ott’s commitment to teaching climate science and advocating for climate solutions demonstrates the power of individual action in addressing the global challenge of climate change. As society grapples with the urgency of the climate crisis, stories like Ott’s provide hope and inspiration for others to reconsider their own beliefs and take meaningful steps towards a sustainable future.
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