Dec 9, 20235 min read

Simplifying the Impossible. A Climate News Source and Initiative.

Updated: Apr 8

Welcome to the MinaCommUnity - a climate news source and initiative dedicated to building a planetary response to climate change using a simplified approach model with positive reinforcements. Author of the MinaCommUnity Column, freelance journalist and climate advocate Mina Rios, is committed to growing the climate movement through effective journalism and initiative efforts that evoke, inspire, and assert action.

Climate Media Coverage

Until recently, climate news coverage in the mass media was limited. Since extreme weather events have increased in frequency worldwide and vivid imagery of devastation is being captured on camera everywhere, climate change is covered daily.

In 2022, an article from The Atlantic reported how a study that began in 2010 led to the revelation that well-liked meteorologists were likely conduits for influencing television viewers on the effects of climate change. Now we're seeing a growing number of meteorologists around the country taking the initiative to explain to audiences how global warming and weather patterns are connected during weather forecasts; a remarkable progression in efforts to expand awareness.

Trusted Climate Information Sources

From the deluge of climate news sources, readers seeking fact, analysis, and compelling storytelling beyond the general Who, What, When, and Where, are well-advised to get their information from trusted sources. The Guardian, ProPublica, Reuters, Inside Climate News, The Atlantic, NPR, and PBS, several of which are recognized for their excellence in investigative journalism, address the Why and How things are so - at length. Stories that address major concerns that affect the world population such as Why salinity in oceans is increasing and How and Why crops like rice, cocoa, coffee, wine grapes and several other resources in our food systems are at threat, is essential food for thought. Such topics are also addressed in several credible blogs, newsletters, press releases, and case studies published by various impassioned groups in the private sector. Many of these sources will be referenced regularly in future MinaCommUnity Column posts.

Our Audience

The necessary time commitment to decipher through the most pertinent climate news available doesn't have to be daunting. The MinaCommUnity Column and Initiative aims to reach those with limited time who wish to stay well informed on the climate crisis; essentially those people who've procrastinated over learning more and doing more but haven't. I was one of those people, not long ago.

How It Works

Climate information is complex - hence the reason the MinaCommUnity Column is distinctly positioned as a climate news simplified source. We provide a specially curated collection of trusted climate news sources with major highlights in a condensed summary to catch you up quickly, sparing you from having to research the content yourself. Source links are provided for reference and reading at leisure.

The Information Journey

Since the start of my writing career in 2007, I've taken the time to delve deeply into my article subjects, ensuring accuracy and that content is as stimulating as it is informative.

Along the way, I've discovered a genuine appreciation for the research and analysis process - nearly calling it a recreational pass-time. Call me strange, that's okay. The information journey is my absolute pleasure. The MinaCommUnity Column is my gift to readers with the desire to make a difference, hoping they will learn a few things, find inspiration, and become motivated to do more to help our planet. Remember, there's no planet B! And Mars is not an option.

While keeping readers informed on the most pressing climate issues affecting California, the nation, and the planet is a priority; we're also mindful of potential doomsday overload. For this reason, every MinaCommUnity Column post will conclude with the following positive reinforcements:

Climate art inspiration | Climate movement progress | Sustainable living solutions

Taking Initiative

The man-made climate crisis is a monstrous undertaking. Phasing out fossil fuels globally remains our biggest challenge in the climate fight. A full transition of this scale, to renewable energy, will take years if not decades. Meanwhile, there has to be more we can do collectively as a society to help reduce carbon emissions more rapidly. I believe there is. I'm calling it collective restraint. A simple approach; because we all have the means. Further details on this concept will be shared in an upcoming Op-Ed by Mina Rios, to be submitted to the mass media in early 2024.

The MinaCommUnity Initiative has highly ambitious intentions. With the launch of this first column, we've taken our first step toward building a momentum. In the coming weeks, months, and years, we'll explore partnerships and collaborations with groups interested in partaking in the simplified approach model to further the initiative. Inquiries welcome from all parts of the globe.

There's so much we're eager to share. On behalf of the MinaCommUnity, thank you for visiting. We look forward to your continued readership. Until next time.

Positive Reinforcements. Please engage, as you wish:

children engaged in climate art — Children engaged in climate art.

Climate Art INSPIRATION

Visit the All We Can Save Project website for free Printable Climate Justice Posters

Climate Movement PROGRESS

Climate Anxiety among youth and adults is on the rise, but more resources are emerging to help combat this condition. If you or someone you know are affected by Climate Anxiety, these sources may help. Sources offer coping methods, expert advice, and more.

The Climate Psychology Alliance of North America: Climate-Aware Therapist Directory
Climate Mental Health Network - offering self care worksheets, coping strategies, and more

Practical SOLUTIONS. Sustainable Giving.

The days of impulse buying are over. The Conservation Age is now. This Holiday:

Support local artisans. Buy gifts from: jewelry makers, soap makers, visual artists.
Consider regifting i.e., candles, scarves, gloves, or videos.
Create meaningful gifts i.e., cookies, bread, homemade preserves, dried flowers.
Buy second hand. Look for gently used items such as vases or dishware, or collectibles like music, books, comics, or vintage wear.
Avoid buying gift wrap. The chemically treated paper is toxic. Use natural fiber cloth, paper bags, and creative containers such as tin boxes instead.
Avoid buying synthetic ribbon. It's toxic and doesn't decompose. Use raffia, twine, and cotton yarn instead.