Up for Debate: pathways to net zero

The growing partisan divide in recent years has helped transform communication related to U.S. energy policy, once viewed as more functional and less controversial, into highly divisive subject matter. Yet, as is often the case, issues like climate change are becoming less polarizing for subsequent generations. As such, there is an opportunity to implement a new type of conversation about how to achieve mid-century sustainability goals. The energy-related policies put forth in the coming decades will impact the U.S. environment, the health of its citizens, and its economy for generations to come. So, it is imperative that information regarding the various topics related to creating a sustainable energy system be communicated in an effective, entertaining, and digestible manner. And, as opposed to prioritizing conflict amongst its guests for theatre, debates can be utilized to build trust and present balanced arguments regarding available solutions. Thanks to the prevalence of steaming services, the potential to engage with audiences has grown significantly. In this case, science students in high schools and universities, young adult moderates on both sides of the isle. Combine ubiquitous streaming services with a strategic underutilized format, and environmental communications may be able to avoid some of the past pitfalls and raise the level of public discourse. A ground-breaking issue-focused televised debate over nuclear energy help show the potential. Now is the time to seize the opportunity. This paper presents a business plan to develop a streaming television show, depicting issue-focused debates, regarding the merits of potential energy policies and technologies, for high schools, college classrooms, as well as new segments of the general public