How to Talk to Straight Men about Sustainability

Source: New Girl from FOX

*Disclaimer: This article is meant to be read as satire. Working in climate action and sustainability can be tough work, and we hope this brings you momentary joy and a good laugh, but please, do not take us seriously!* 

As the seasons change, many of us are finding ourselves in new environments with new people. Whether you moved to a new neighborhood, started a new job, began a new semester of school, or are just looking to diversify your social circle – you may be finding yourself in spaces where you are required to interact with straight, cis, white men. Some of us encounter this particular breed of men incidentally, in professional or casual social settings, while others of us are unfortunately plagued by a romantic or physical interest in straight men. But we all need a framework for talking to them about what matters most: sustainability. Don’t get me wrong, we all know a few Brads, Chads, and Brians who are all about climate justice. I mean, honestly, I've seen more straight men with “Vegan (Plant Emoji)” in their tinder bio than ever before. However, they still have a lot to learn, and like most things, the girls, gays, and theys have been called to educate. The next time you find yourself sharing space with a straight man, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, consult The Sustainable Baddie’s Guide to Talking to Straight Men™ about Sustainability. 

Credit: Friends via Warner Bros

1. Make them Fight for It 

There are so few things that white, straight, cis men in the U.S. have had to fight for, so make sustainability one of them. You might be thinking, “What? Don’t we want sustainability to be accessible for all?” You’re right, but in order for straight men to understand the importance of living sustainably, we have to make it a thing they have to earn. There are few clubs that straight men have not been let into, and once they realize that this club was made without them, they will not only want IN, but they will literally do whatever we say. If we want them to completely swear off single-use plastic and learn how to knit their own sweaters, we have that power, but only if we keep them at a distance. Consider talking about your sustainable social circles in their presence. For example, try this with your officemate: 

You: “Hi Brad, how was your weekend? I went to the Bed-Stuy Clothing Swap and made so many hot and fun friends.” 

Brad: “Wow that sounds cool. Maybe next weekend I could go with you?” 

You: “Oh sorry Brad! Typically these events are only for other hot and cool people who are super committed to living sustainably

Source: Seinfeld from Hulu

Immediately, Brad will want to prove to you that he is super committed to living sustainably, so that he can get an invite to the clothing swap. Watch as he spends the rest of the week proving his new lifestyle to you! 

2. Consider Altering Your Language

You may have noticed that straight men often use language that is different from the girls, gays, and theys. Although we do not want to prioritize making things easier for straight men, reflecting their language may make sustainability more comprehensible, and give them the motivation needed to implement sustainability practices. Consider beginning by “dapping up” the man in question and using greetings such as “What’s up my guy/brother/man.” Then follow up with a comment like “Killer climate march on Friday morning, missed your presence bro.” For optimal success, end the encounter with a “bro” hug. 

Source: The Office from NBCUniversal

Some other helpful phrases to try: “Sustainability is the future brother, no cap.” “The earth is based, don’t let the fossil fuel industry hustle you.” “My new shampoo bar is mad sick dude. You have to get on this.” “That neighborhood cleanup last night was absolutely righteous – hope to see you at the next one.” By incorporating these key words, you can make sustainability not only accessible, but also appealing, to straight men. Representation matters; when we reflect straight male lingo, they will see themselves reflected in the mission and efforts of sustainability. Don’t be surprised when your straight male friend starts asking for your help setting up his new compost pickup service!

3. Try Incentives!

Like most of us, straight men need validation or a little treat for doing a good job. When talking to straight men about sustainability, it may be useful to incorporate incentives as needed. However, incentives must reflect the person we are incentivizing! Things like an iced oat milk latte might not do the trick here, so we have to get creative.  

Source: The Simpsons from FOX

Some incentives that I have had success with: “Practicing sustainability is a great way to improve your fantasy league standing!” or “Hey man, if you go to the Climate Strike with me on Friday we can totally get Raising Canes after!” or, “Heard we can get free beer tonight at the climate action committee meeting!” It’s important to remember that lying is ok! The worst that can happen is the straight man doesn’t get a silly little treat for doing the bare minimum. It can also be helpful to barter with straight men. Things like, “I will watch college game day on ESPN with you if you bring your reusable utensils to the picnic tonight.” or “I will buy you knee length shorts if you go thrifting with me today.” Incentives and negotiations will make sustainability more interesting and exciting for straight men!  

Now that you have read our guide, it is time to put these tips into practice. Next time you’re swiping away on tinder, mingling in the office, or picking a new seat in class, don't be afraid to drop some susty conversations. You never know who you might bring into the movement! No matter what, that is a win for sustainability