For example, I regularly cycle to a communal recycling station because I want to recycle my tetrapak cartons. On the other, it can also feel so small compared to the challenges and structural changes that are needed, which then makes me feel my individual efforts are futile.
On the one side, the list of things “you can do” is great because allows a sense of agency which is vital for countering anxiety. For example, fly less, reduce consumption, buy local, recycle, eat differently etc. Personally, I find that ticking off the “things you can do lists” does help. Focusing on steady progress on decarbonisation or gradually successful efforts to adapt to a changing climate don’t have the same appeal for media that wants to grab our attention. Also, we need to remember that the media like to report the findings of catastrophic climate change impacts. I think of it as not trying to “solve” our emotions but instead focus on some of the root cause and take actions accordingly. But despite this, it is easy to question how much this work makes a difference, and to remain anxious about the future of planet and society. As such, I have a privileged position: my policy-focused research grants me connections with various governments, international bodies, and grassroots organisations. Climate anxiety sometimes paralyses my thinking and enthusiasm for what I do – and that is in the context of a job that is directly geared to action to tackle climate change. I think many people have been experiencing this silently and privately for many years, but the conversation is no longer hidden.
Like many others, I have and it is good to talk about it openly. Professor, have you ever experienced climate anxiety? Dr Thomas Tanner is Director of the Centre for Development, Environment and Policy in the Department of Development Studies at SOAS University of London. So, I reached-out to a renowned academic to understand his view on climate anxiety. It refers to anger, worry and insecurity stemming from an awareness of a warming planet. Sometimes, I find it really hard to study properly without being consumed by “what if”. Studying possible projections, pathways, and scenarios, along with humans’ current actions give me a lot of anxiety.
I am only half-way through, and it has already kicked me to embrace couple of new projects – including the blog you are reading right now! The more I learn about climate change, the more I understand the scale of the challenge ahead of us. In October 2020, I started a new adventure by registering for a two-year Master in Climate Change and Sustainable Development. This article explores what climate anxiety is and how can you fix it through the lens of Dr Thomas Tanner, a renowned academic in the field of climate change and international development. You are not alone, and this has a name: climate anxiety. Have you ever woken up in a cold sweat, feeling like the world is going to end? The climate breakdown is happening and there is nothing you can do about it. This article originally appeared on Caldo blog.
0 kommentar(er)
