In times of climate denial and distorted narratives, using accurate and comprehensible language is essential to understand reality and take appropriate action.

Whether addressing the climate crisis, environmental conflicts, or the circular economy, the pitfalls of incorrect language are always lurking.

Why refer to “bad weather” when dealing with extreme events? Or describe a company as sustainable when it’s merely engaging in greenwashing?

How do we narrate the challenges of our century? How important is it to use the right words to understand and attempt to overcome them?

How can we explain concepts like the Anthropocene, ecofeminism, or land grabbing to everyone?

These questions gave rise to the Ecologist Glossary, a collaborative effort and a valuable tool to navigate the vast sea of information (and misinformation) concerning the environment and climate.

Curated by A Sud, an independent association active in ecological issues, the glossary features contributions from numerous experts in science, communication, activism, journalism, and academia: Luca Mercalli, Cristina Mangia, Laura Greco, Marco Cervino, Marco Armiero, Marica Di Pierri, Alessandro Coltré, Letizia Palmisano, Lorenzo Fargnoli, Sarah Gainsforth, Rahma Nur, Michele Carducci, Lorenzo Manni, and many others.

The result is both a compass for orientation and a toolbox for delving into theory and practice—from key concepts and definitions to acronyms and essential terms needed to understand the multifaceted nature of environmental issues.

But it’s also an invitation to view the changing world through an ecologist and circular perspective.