The recent Climate Reality Project virtual training, held from Oct. 18 to Oct. 23, brought together climate advocates and leaders for a powerful five-day event.
Led by former Vice President Al Gore, participants gained the latest insights on climate science, tools to mobilize their communities, and a path to becoming certified Climate Reality Leaders.
The 57th Climate Reality Leadership Corps training began with a presentation from Mr. Gore, who shared the latest data on climate science, impacts, and solutions across the United States.
Known for his lifelong commitment to addressing the climate crisis, Gore updated participants on the urgency of climate action and provided clear, actionable solutions.
Day two opened with a message from Climate Reality Project President and CEO Phyllis Cuttino, focusing on what can be done and highlighting the project’s success in the U.S. so far.
The issue-panel discussion, moderated by Gore, explored how to make a difference in local communities and governments through civic engagement. Participants heard from prominent voices including Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, Sarah Eagle Heart, Chandra Farley and Sage Lenier.
The broadcast continued with Gore, Rep. Jamie Raskin and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, who discussed how fossil fuel interests hinder climate progress at the national level. The two lawmakers have worked to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for obstructing climate action.
To close the day, Executive Editor Amy Westervelt moderated a discussion with Matt Traldi and Katie Worth delving into where opposition to climate action originates and how communities can address it.
The final day of live broadcasts answered the critical question, “Now what?” Attendees learned how to stay engaged with the Climate Reality Project and their communities. A Q&A session with renowned climate scientists Dr. Katharine Hayhoe and Dr. Marshall Shepherd addressed pressing audience questions.
The three-day broadcast portion concluded with Gore’s closing remarks and the presentation of the Alfredo Sirkis Memorial Green Ring Award to Don Viecelli, a climate leader who first trained with the project in 2020.
Building Momentum
Throughout the event, participants absorbed critical information and took part in skill-building workshops and sessions designed to enhance their advocacy. Networking opportunities and group discussions further enriched the experience, preparing newly certified Climate Reality Leaders to make a tangible impact.
Participants also had access to several on-demand workshops aimed at developing the skills needed for effective climate action. These workshops included:
Why Electrify: A Course that Sparks from Rewiring America, which explored the benefits and strategies for electrification as a solution to reduce emissions.
Strategies for Creative Campaigning Against Greenwashers, focusing on exposing and combating misleading corporate environmental claims.
Multigenerational Climate Stories: Inspiring Change Through Community Conversations and Collective Action, which highlighted the importance of storytelling across generations to inspire climate action.
For those unable to participate during the live broadcasts, the event offered the flexibility to finish the training by Sunday, Oct. 27, to become certified as a Climate Reality Leader.
The unique opportunity equipped participants with tools, knowledge, and community support to drive forward climate solutions in their regions, such as through the Greater Phoenix Chapter, and beyond.
