In a recent survey published in The Lancet, it was revealed that over 50% of young individuals in the United States are significantly concerned about climate change. Moreover, more than one-third of respondents expressed that their emotions regarding climate change have a negative impact on their daily lives. This highlights a growing trend where young people are experiencing distress due to the effects of climate change, primarily driven by the burning of fossil fuels.
Jennifer Atkinson, a professor at the University of Washington, is actively involved in studying the emotional and psychological toll of climate change. She recognizes the importance of creating spaces within college classrooms for students to openly discuss and process their feelings about climate change. Atkinson teaches a class on climate grief and eco-anxiety where students can explore and share their emotions with peers who are experiencing similar concerns.
Several professors across different universities are adopting approaches that prioritize addressing students’ emotions and providing solutions in climate change education. For instance, at Cornell University, Professor Michael Hoffmann introduced a class focusing on food and its connection to climate change. By incorporating personal experiences related to food choices into discussions about climate change impacts, Hoffmann aims to make the subject more relatable and actionable for students.
Research suggests that offering clear steps for addressing climate change can help alleviate students’ anxieties about the issue. The Yale Program on Climate Change Communication has reported that engaging in discussions about solutions with peers can be an effective way to combat anxiety related to climate change. This underscores the significance of fostering supportive environments within academic settings for students to connect over shared concerns and learn how they can contribute positively towards mitigating environmental challenges.
Students at Cornell University who have participated in classes like Hoffmann’s have found value in learning about global risks to food security caused by rising temperatures and understanding how individual food choices can impact carbon emissions. Through interactive activities such as analyzing how specific foods may be affected by climate change, students like freshman Andrea Kim have gained insights into practical steps they can take towards sustainability.
It is evident from student testimonies that these emotionally-focused classes not only provide valuable knowledge but also empower individuals to take meaningful actions against climate change. By acknowledging their role in shaping a sustainable future through education and advocacy, students are finding ways to navigate their feelings of anxiety and helplessness into proactive engagement with environmental issues.
