Code red: How we can work together to save our planet — and our democracy

Our democracy is on the brink of collapse, and so too, according to this week's report from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, is our planet.

Yet, by focusing on the protection of our environment, we can alleviate the most severe consequences of climate change and at the same time save our democracy.  

America’s uncivil political war surrounds us in media-hyped anger every moment we’re connected to our smartphone, convincing us that our cultural divide is too wide to surmount. The truth is the opposite. 

From our experience, most Americans can work together to resolve their differences on almost any issue, simply by talking. Robust civil discourse, even if it begins in anger, can lead us to understanding and shared purpose.