As students passed through the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign quad during finals week, they were met with a different perspective on climate change, courtesy of CFACT Collegian Connor McEleney.
Stationed near the Illini Union, McEleney spent the afternoon handing out flyers and sharing environmental facts with fellow students. Rather than focusing solely on mainstream approaches, these discussions often touched on issues such as nuclear power, property rights, and the consequences of so-called renewable energy.
No puppies were harmed, or even mildly inconvenienced, in the course of these climate conversations. One four-legged visitor stopped by as students discussed the fact that nuclear energy is America’s largest source of emissions-free electricity.
Through casual conversations with students, McEleney proved that discussing climate change doesn’t have to be adversarial or divisive; it can start with a sunny day and a friendly face. McEleney introduced students to a fresh perspective on energy, climate, and environmental issues simply by striking up a conversation.
Wind and solar power are intermittent energy sources, meaning they require backup generators or energy storage to provide electricity when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining.
By taking conversations beyond the classroom and onto the sidewalk, McEleney used a simple approach to encourage open dialogue and expose his peers to perspectives they may not have considered before.