First Dog on the Moon cartoon urges public to hug climate scientists
The cartooning collective advises readers to show gratitude to scientists while avoiding awkward interactions, noting the existential weight of their work.
The Guardian published an opinion piece and accompanying cartoon on 12 June 2026 by the First Dog on the Moon collective, urging the public to express love and gratitude towards climate scientists. The artwork advises readers to hug scientists but cautions against making the interaction awkward, noting that researchers are already dealing with significant existential dread.
The piece describes the scientists as "brave boffins at the coal face of existential dread," highlighting the emotional toll of their work. The collective’s message frames the scientific community as facing a severe emotional burden due to the climate crisis, calling for public support and acknowledgment of their efforts.
The opinion piece includes calls to action for readers to sign up for email notifications to receive future First Dog cartoons. It also directs readers to the First Dog shop to purchase merchandise and prints, integrating commercial elements with the editorial content.
The cartoon and text were published as part of The Guardian’s opinion section, distinguishing the content from factual news reporting or scientific analysis. The informal language used in the headline and body text reflects the tone of the cartoonists rather than objective instruction or clinical assessment.
The publication date of 12 June 2026 marks the release of this specific commentary. The content serves as a cultural commentary on the relationship between the public and the scientific community during the climate emergency.