Cultural Differences in Sustainability

Talking About Climate Change with Confidence: A Conversation with Dr. Alice Alpert

Climate change is a topic that affects every one of us, yet it can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even polarizing. That's why I was excited to welcome Dr. Alice Alpert, Senior Scientist at the Environmental Defense Fund, to the Go Natural English podcast. Dr. Alpert studies emerging climate technologies, evaluates their real-world impact, and works with teams focused on methane, climate policy, and international sustainability partnerships.

In our conversation, we explored misconceptions, sources of hope, daily sustainability habits, and clear English vocabulary related to the climate conversation.

What Does a Climate Scientist Do?

Dr. Alpert evaluates new climate solutions, from clean energy to carbon-removal technologies to sustainable farming. Her work starts with two key questions:

1. Does this solution meaningfully help reduce climate impact?

2. What are the trade-offs or challenges that come with it?

Her job is not just to imagine solutions but to determine what actually works.

The Biggest Misunderstanding About Climate Change

Dr. Alpert explained that a major misconception is the idea that climate action is "all or nothing."

People often believe:

• "It's too late to do anything," or

• "It's someone else's responsibility."

Both mindsets lead to inaction. "You don't have to be perfect," she said. "Every step forward helps. The idea of 'everything or nothing' isn't useful."

How She Stays Hopeful

Climate news can feel heavy, so I asked what keeps her motivated. Her answer was simple: the future.

"I have three kids. That's three votes for the future. We are moving in the right direction, and I think we'll get most of the way there."

Her optimism is practical and rooted in evidence. Many climate solutions are already working and becoming more affordable.

Misconceptions About Sustainability, Especially in Texas

One surprising part of our conversation was about renewable energy in Texas. Many people assume Texas is not sustainable, but the opposite is true.

• Texas produces more clean energy than any other U.S. state, and by a huge margin.

• Wind, solar, and battery storage are growing rapidly.

• Much of this growth is driven by economics, not ideology.

"It's the cheapest energy," she said. "People are making money from it."

Another misconception is that sustainability is always more expensive. In reality, the cheapest new energy to build today is solar.

Short-Term Costs vs. Long-Term Benefits

Many sustainable choices cost more upfront but save money over time: installing solar panels, buying an electric vehicle, or purchasing high-quality items that last longer.

I shared the example of clothing I've kept for more than a decade. A well-made sweater ended up costing less over time than several cheaper ones.

Dr. Alpert agreed. "The upfront investment is real. But long-term thinking matters."

Everyday Sustainability: What Works for You

Dr. Alpert emphasized that sustainability should be personal and realistic.

A few examples we discussed:

Thrifting and Secondhand Shopping

Buying used items reduces waste and builds community.

Reusing Items for Children

Circulating children's items among families increases their lifespan and reduces unnecessary purchases.

Flexible Eating Habits

She chooses what feels natural. She doesn't eliminate any foods, but she eats less beef because she doesn't enjoy it much and knows it has a higher climate impact.

Her philosophy is simple: do what works for your lifestyle, not someone else's.

Cultural Differences in Sustainability

Many listeners of Go Natural English live in the United States but grew up abroad. If that describes you, you may have noticed differences in:

• recycling habits

• how food is packaged

• energy use

• transportation

• diet choices

We would love to hear about your experiences and what surprised you when comparing sustainability practices around the world.

Key English Vocabulary for Talking About Climate Change

Because much climate information is published in English, we reviewed several useful terms.

Carbon footprint

The amount of greenhouse gases created by an activity.

Carbon neutral

No net increase in emissions; emissions are balanced by removals.

Renewable or clean energy

Energy sources that do not rely on fossil fuels. Examples include wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, and sometimes nuclear.

Fossil fuels

Coal, oil, and natural gas. Dr. Alpert jokingly compared them to "burning dinosaurs."

Move the needle

To make a meaningful impact or measurable improvement.

In the same boat

Facing the same challenge or depending on the same shared resource.

Individual Actions and Leadership Actions

While individual choices matter, Dr. Alpert pointed out something important: You cannot expect one person to "save the world." Leadership and policy matter too.

So how do we hold leaders accountable?

• Voting, especially at the local level

• Joining conservation-minded organizations

• Speaking up through social media or letters

• Staying informed on local policies

• Supporting leaders who prioritize clean energy and sustainability

These steps make a meaningful difference.

Where to Learn More

Dr. Alpert recommends two easy places to start:

1. The book "Not the End of the World" by Hannah Ritchie 📘 https://amzn.to/4nWcJ4L

2. A simple online search for "Guide to what you can do about climate change" She found this produces highly practical resources.

Her Approach in One Sentence

"Do your best and forget the rest."

Sustainability does not require perfection. It requires participation and consistency.

What Will You Try Next?

Is there one small action you feel inspired to try this week? Have you noticed differences in sustainability habits between countries?

Share your experience in the comments on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/OrspTd7eSyk

Your perspective might inspire someone else.

If you'd like more conversations like this—combining expert insights with practical English learning—follow the Go Natural English podcast for upcoming episodes.