Building greater sustainability takes a village. Writing a letter to the editor of a local (or national) news source, or posting a note to social media or any other “public square” is one of the most direct steps you can take to influence and bring change. And it’s easier than many think to get published.
Freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.
~ Walter Cronkite
Small action. Big results.
A letter can accomplish many things:
Inform. The topic of sustainability is broad. Letters can help provide background on specific elements, and how different elements fit together.
Amplify. We are all “swayed” by what we hear. Topics that are discussed more get greater attention. Every additional voice for sustainability elevates the topic and demonstrates its importance.
Positive action. Elected officials, business leaders, and community members all seek to be “in step” with public opinion. A constant stream of public dialogue around sustainability builds momentum for constructive action.
Action lever. A published letter can be a great tool to request a meeting (and prompt attention) from public officials and other leaders in the community. It can also generate follow-on community interest.
Keys to an effective letter
Simple. A good letter conveys a straightforward message. The “take away” is clear.
Attention-getting. A good letter attracts the attention of readers because it includes a “hook” that resonates.
Topical. A good letter will address how to build greater sustainability.
Some tips to get a letter read
Choose a reference that resonates! Use a current event, news item, or topic of attention as a hook to bring your message about sustainability to readers.
Use facts. Footnotes to show sources are helpful. Try not to repeat second hand assertions.
Be positive. No need to disparage or demonize anyone. Be respectful. Humor and wit go a long way to opening others’ mind to issues, challenges, and potential ways forward. Is your letter written in a way that would make members of your family proud?
Stay focused on your message. One issue for one letter is PERFECT! Published letters generally are very short. The same advice is good for longer submissions as well, e.g., and op-ed should develop a single, clear, focused message.
Offer a solution or constructive step. Ask readers to join to reach a common goal. Presenting a call to action can be a powerful tool. Offering resources can also be very helpful to build awareness, generate enthusiasm, and prompt participation.
Close strong. Rhetorical devices like repetition can be effective.
Practical Tips
If you are sending your letter to a publication, it’s especially important to be timely and topical. A response to an article, story, or event should be within two or three days.
It can be helpful to mention elected or public officials, especially if the issue is one voters are talking about, e.g., a new rule or referendum related to sustainability.
Refer directly to whatever your letter is responding to as it appeared in the publication, e.g., story title and page number.
Follow any submission guidelines, e.g., max word count. Make your submission part of the email, not a separate attachment that might be lost.
Additional Resources
Information from Citizens Climate Lobby on effective letter writing.
