How To: Write a Letter to the Editor

Educate your community about energy issues and climate justice solutions!

Reasons to Write

  • Raise awareness about an issue.

  • Reach new people.

  • Get noticed by elected officials.

  • Can change how a publication reports on climate issues.

  • Influence public discussions and legislation.

What to Write About

  • A climate justice issue active in your community

  • A climate justice solution that you would like to see in your community

  • Current legislation in progress: visit 350vt.org/resources for info on our current campaigns.

Steps to submitting

  1. Call the newspaper or check its website to find out the submission guidelines.

  2. Submit your letter to more than just one publication (don’t forget Front Porch Forum).

  3. Just do it! It doesn’t have to be perfect.

  4. Don’t hesitate to follow up. Call or email the paper to ask if they’re going to publish it.

  • Discuss something happening now, a recent event, or a recent article.

  • Keep it to 300 words or less for a LTE; 400–600 for longer-form commentaries/op-eds.

  • Use short paragraphs.

  • Be quick to make your point.

  • If appropriate, tell readers what they can do or where to find out more information.

The Basics of Letter-Writing

Best Practices

  • Use your own voice; tell why the issue matters to you

  • Use clear language (pro tip: have someone who isn’t familiar with the issue read a draft to check for comprehension).

  • Give specific examples of the consequences (good or bad) of an issue.

  • Use data and numbers sparingly, to underline your point but not overwhelm the reader.

  • Balance negative critiques with a positive vision for a better world.

Sample LTEs (350 words or less)

Sample op-eds/commentaries (400-600 words)

Want support on your letter? Members of 350VT’s volunteer Communications Team are available to help!

Examples & Resources