We all know that we should drive less, recycle more and turn down the thermostat for the sake of the planet. However, it takes more than knowledge to spur most people to action. That's where the right kind of messaging comes in. And just how those messages are framed can have a big impact, according to the School of Environment's Jennifer Lynes.

By reviewing a number of cognitive psychology and social psychology studies, Lynes and two of her fourth-year students concluded that negative…