PHOENIX — Our planet is changing.
Climate scientists have been telling us for decades that Earth is warming and that’s impacting everything from air quality and extreme weather to our water supply and food production.
Now, some of those same climate scientists are banding together to try to help other parents tackle the issue of climate change at home with their kids.
The “Science Moms,” as they are called, are a group of climate scientists and mothers who “care deeply about the planet that our children will inherit” and “aim to demystify climate change, talk honestly about how it will affect our children and give moms the facts they need to take action.”
You’ve probably seen their commercials as part of a $10 million ad campaign to tell their story of fears and hope for their children.
Joellen Russell is one of the Science Moms and a climate scientist at the University of Arizona. She says, “When we talk about climate, we talk about our stewardship, our responsibility to look after the gifts, the heritage that we have been given and that it’s important to be grateful.”
Watch our extended interview with Joellen Russell, Climate Scientist at the University of Arizona and “Science Mom” in the player below. In it, Amber Sullins talks with her about the climate impacts and solutions for our economy, sustainability and way of life here in Arizona.
Russell also points out that there is no downside to being leaders in the search for solutions and mitigation strategies to deal with this accelerating climate change we are now living with.
Arizona is one of many ground zeros for climate change as we deal with more deadly heat, more extreme drought, raging wildfires and air pollution.
Last summer was a wake-up call for so many of us in Phoenix as we baked through 53 days at 110-degrees or more. The previous record was 33 days back in 2011.
“My air conditioning bill was ridiculous this (past) summer because I just couldn’t stand it after a while, I would turn the AC down. You gotta be able to sleep at night. The kids too,” said Russell.
The Science Moms want to help parents navigate this changing climate with their kids. Their website sciencemoms.com has all the facts and resources you need to start these conversations and answer your children’s questions and it’s all straight from the climate scientists doing to work every day.
