Climate anxiety: when the future of the planet keeps you awake at night
I’m child-free by choice. Over the years, I’ve been very happy with this decision: not only have I never felt the urge to be a parent, I’ve been glad I haven’t brought a child on to the planet in the current state it is in.
The planet has survived multiple crises, and so has humanity. Humanity might have been wiped out in certain places, only to re-emerge. In the past century, it’s seen wars, pandemics, large-scale natural disasters. Threats of nuclear annihilation.
But a catastrophic threat now looms ahead: irreversible climate changes, that again threaten the very existence of our civilization: (Below is an excerpt, but you may read the entire linked article if you like)
The fact that there is no linear relationship between the level of global heating and geophysical responses such as ice sheet melting, permafrost thaw, and ocean current shutdown, means that the time-frame of climate breakdown is hard to pin down, which in turn makes it more perilous. Consequently, any overshoot of the 1.5°C ‘dangerous climate change guardrail’ is extremely risky. Bringing temperatures down to below this mark, at a later stage, by sucking carbon out of the air will do nothing to reverse tipping elements that have already tipped. The corollary of this is that a net zero target of 2050 is far too late. The longer we delay action to slash emissions as the science demands, the more likely it becomes that we will push one or more climate tipping elements beyond the point of no return, locking in changes to our world with the potential to threaten the very existence of our civilisation.
Unlike in movies where the little guys get together to defeat an alien invasion/ pandemic/asteroid, in real life the problem is too nuanced and catastrophic for an individual to make a grand difference. The problem is so big that just recycling our plastic, saving water and electricity and using eco-friendly transport is probably no longer going to cut it. We have to break the hegemony of big money over big politics, in order to come to some crucial decisions. Prompt action now could stop our climate plummeting off irreversible tipping points.
The adults in the room, with very little at stake (most of the climate problems reach a point of no return in about 20 years, by which time my generation would have lived most of its life) are doing little about it. It’s the youngsters, those who are 14-24 right now, who will face the brutal brunt of it. And to them, climate anxiety is real.
A global survey published in Lancet Planetary Health in 2021 reported that among an international cohort of more than 10,000 people between the ages of 16 and 25, 60 percent described themselves as very worried about the climate and nearly half said the anxiety affects their daily functioning. Since young people expect to live longer with climate-related crises than their parents will, “they feel grief in the face of what they’re losing,”
Though I’m no longer 24, climate anxiety plagues me too.
Maybe when push comes to shove, humanity will make the changes we need to make. We’ll stop gobbling up our planet’s resources and sacrificing it at the altar of convenience and reckless consumption.
As things stand, however, the US and UK gave zero support this year to “a proposal for global reductions in the $712bn (£610bn) plastic production industry by 2040 to address twin issues of plastic waste and huge carbon emissions.”
This, when plastic has been found in the human brain: 0.5% of a brain’s weight is now microplastics.
Plastics are everywhere, and the world is doing little to reduce its production, despite its toxic effects on health and environment. Having banished plastic containers and bottles from my kitchen, I confess to still feeling anxious and frustrated at its omnipresence.
All of this, along with the everyday career and familial stresses, sometimes leads to debilitating overwhelm. I’ve just finished one deadline and am about to jump into another.
To combat the anxiety, I volunteer, save, recycle, and consume as little as possible. At the very least, not having a child means I’ve contributed less to this planet’s destruction. And that’s some consolation, yes?
For now, I’m hoping my friends and my agent are safe in Florida, where a Category 4 hurricane has made a landfall. I hope these climate disasters end soon.
Do you suffer from climate anxiety? Have you ever worried about the world your children will inherit? What do you do to campaign against a climate catastrophe? Do you think conscientious consumption and recycling alone can turn the tide?
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Thank you so much for sharing, I have been having major climate anxiety and I think a lot of it started when I visited my mother for spring break. They were hit with a major hurricane and we were cleaning up our neighborhood. We had a dumpster rental Bonita Springs, FL we were filling debris and I couldn’t help but think why don’t we do something so we don’t have to keep doing the cleanup?
Thank you, Damyanti, for a clear and well-argued piece. And thanks for giving me finally a plot for some climate fiction I’ve been wanting to write for ages.
I was working in climate and energy policy by the late 90s. It was frightening how much we knew then, especially about the tipping points, and even more frightening how the rich (inc politicians in their pockets) just ignored it. Even work by Al Gore (former US VP) and Nicholas Stern (former Chief Economist at the World Bank) failed to do more than mildly blip the focus towards more ‘green’ policies.
I started to reread Stern’s Blueprint for a Safer Planet a couple of years ago. I threw it out after a couple of chapters. We were already so far past his key tipping points there was really no point.
The main problem is self-interest.
Yes, we should all continue to do our best to help our fellow denizens of the planet, reducing, rewilding, recycling, preventing disasters as much as we can.
WE SHOULD WRITE ABOUT IT. And sing about it, and paint… there is a movement trying to get the arts engaged with the climate debate at COP in Azerbaijan this autumn.
But the only things that will make a difference now are stopping oil (including cruises and flying), and helping the many many millions of climate refugees that will be moving north and south, and uphill.
with love xxx
Hi, Damyanti! Your post is excellent, and I’m glad that I had a chance to read it. I do have climate anxiety, and coming from a scientific background (geology), I understand so much of what is threatening us right now. I don’t have children, although if I had been able to, I would have probably 35 years ago. Now I’m somewhat relieved that I couldn’t. My nieces and nephews are struggling with this issue right now. A few have children, most do not, and it’s because of the threat climate change poses. That said, I’ve seen many babies and small children around the world. I’m always sending a prayer of hope for them and their future. I’d like to hope that things will work out, but I’m less and less hopeful than I was. Did you ever read “Ministry for the Future” by Kim Stanley Robinson? I read it when it was published in 2020, because Robinson is one of my most favorite writers. Tragically, we’ve already surpassed what he hoped for and the small hope he gave us. As for me, what am I doing? I try to use and reuse everything I can as well as recycle as much as I can. But I travel by air, and I have cruised. Travel is a passion of mine, and I haven’t given it up. I’m self-centered and selfish in that respect, and I know it. I vote in every election from city to country with the climate crisis in mind. I also donate money to preserve the environment and protect wild areas and also to help people around the world. On one level it’s hard to imagine what’s happening, and on the other, I understand only too well what is happening. And I focus on loving my family and friends as much as I can. I feel so inadequate as one little person, but I also refuse to give up. Please take care, Damyanti. You are an inspiration, and I love your books! ❤️
Thank you so much, that’s so kind! With your level of expertise and knowledge, I can only imagine how devastating it must be to see and recognize just how much our planet is going through on a daily basis. My heart goes out to all those who tried to warn us about the climate threats, yet were ignored or labelled as doomsayers. I wish for a brighter future for the younger generation and I do have hope that positive change can be implemented. I haven’t read Ministry for the Future, but I’m definitely going to search it up! As for your passion for travel, I completely understand. I love travelling, and I doubt I can bring myself to give it up, despite the guilt. Like you, I just try to do my best. Take care of yourself, too, and I’m so grateful for your comment!
Hi Damyanti – I would have had children if life had been different … but now – that’s life, though I do wonder what the future holds – I’d love to know … but guess I won’t find out?! Thankfully I don’t suffer from anxiety either … also having been born in England and living here – life is reasonably comfortable, despite Brexit et al … the future … after the War – so much change then too … which people adapted to … I just hope future generations can find their way forward. But we are only an animal … and no doubt will go extinct … life is strange isn’t it … cheers Hilary
Life is strange, I completely agree. There are so many factors out of our control, that the situation sometimes feels hopeless. But the best we can do is try and, like many have told me, to live life to the fullest. It’s good to hear that life is reasonably comfortable for you! It’s amazing how we as a species can adapt to so much, despite the trials and tribulations which may arise. I too hope that the future generations are able to find their place in the midst of the climate chaos, and that the future has much better things in store for them and for our flora and fauna.
I surely do suffer anxiety. And like you, I chose to not have children, and am grateful for that now with the state of the world. 🙂 x
I’m glad that I never felt the urge to have children, and I think that has a greater ripple effect in the long run.
Like you Damyanti, I’ve chosen not to have kids – more because I’m not really into children and all that goes with them. But I still worry, for the younger generations, even more than for my own. Human civilisations have destroyed themselves before. Consumption is the critical factor. We could happily engage in activities that use finite resource and create pollution, if only there weren’t so many of us. Human population passed the level of unsustainability long ago, and yet when considering what can be done to minimise the climate crisis you will rarely hear anyone mention the idea of reducing consumption by reducing population (slowly, by reducing the birth rate – I’m not proposing decimation!) Unfortunately most humans, and particularly those who are in control, lack the ability for critical thinking to escape the instinct to use the maximisation of offspring as a survival technique.
Until recently I thought climate change would prove to be our nemesis. Now, I’m inclined to think nuclear war will get in first. I guess all we can do is to enjoy life while we’ve got it, and try not to worry about what’s coming. And you never know, we may yet turn things around!
I fear for the younger generations, too, and it’s unfortunate that they have to deal with all the existing problems and potential dangers. I also feel that overconsumption, what with our desire for material things, the overindulgence of our wants, and the proliferation of waste, is such a major concern. But I must say it’s relieving to see thrifting, recycled goods, and other eco-conscious alternatives on the rise. You’re right — we may be able to reverse the damage. And in the meantime, we just need to do what we can and keep appreciating our lives to the fullest!
Climate has changed many times over the history of this world and scientists learn a lot by taking core samples of the arctic regions as well as such other things as looking at the growth indicators in ancient trees. It has impacted some of the creatures that used to roam the earth some to change to meet the new realities and some to go extinct. I don’t stress over it. There is enough to worry about just living in today’s dysfunctional world Damyanti so enjoy life as best as it’s possible 🙂
You’re right, Ian. Thank you for the words of reassurance. I tend to fixate on the negative, allowing the joys of life to be shadowed by worry and doubts. I need to take a leaf out of your book and avoid stressing too much.
Your work is high pressure Damyanti, and you are a high achiever which takes a lot of energy. Stress is a byproduct, and I know you counteract that by a good exercise program which I highly recommend having spent my life in high pressure administration. Stress manifests itself in different ways and in your case you are concerned about climate change which we all should be aware of. All we can do is act responsibly in our stewardship of the earth and the animal kingdom, but change happens, and we have to accept that and adjust as best we can with a positive frame of mind. I think you do that.
Yes. It’s the most important issue in the world today. What do I do? Use as little plastic as possible, don’t fly, don’t eat meat, recycle everything we can…it’s just not enough, is it? Unless the big multinationals and governments can be forced into meaningful action – and it will take something phenomenal to do this – I fear there’s little hope. Not very cheerful, am I?
Not to worry, I’m currently in the same state of mind as you are! With everything that’s happening, it can be challenging to keep up the cheer. I try to do as much as I can, too, but you’re right — although individual efforts are incredibly important, it’s the major companies and organizations which need to invest resources and effort into making meaningful change.
We just have to hope.
I’m taken aback by the intensity of the worldwide climate events that cause so much destruction, but I wouldn’t call it anxiety, per se. I’m more anxious right now about the wars going on and where they may lead. Either way, modern society is fraught with anxiety. The climbing crime rate in Canada, where I live, is also a major concern. We recycle and do what we can (haven’t flown anywhere since 2018, but that’s more circumstance than intent), but I don’t obsess over it. We are also childfree by choice, so I share you sentiments about that. 🙂
That’s true, anxiety seems to be a constantly growing feeling, with matters being so volatile and the future being so uncertain. War, climate change, crime, and many more — it’s difficult to relax with these countless issues always being up in the air. But I definitely need to learn to stop obsessing quite as much, and to just focus on what I can control instead of worrying about all the things I can’t.
Yes, the “Serenity Prayer” can be applied here. 🙂
Always. And it doesn’t help that I keep reading about it!
Yes, bad news is just everywhere! Wherever I look, there’s seems to be another horror story about the state of our planet and the climate catastrophes humanity is causing.
I don’t worry too much. We recycle, but knowing only eight percent of plastics turned in actually get recycled, it seems like a futile effort. Electric cars don’t help – the components that go into their batteries pollute when being harvested and afterwards when the battery dies. Solar panels have the same issue. We need other options because those things are not working.
Agreed, so many of the current alternatives have their own harmful consequences. It’s frustrating to feel as though there’s no way to avoid the damage. But I try to have hope that all the little efforts will add up in the future.
Yes, I do what I can to reduce my carbon footprint. I also write limericks about the environment for another blogger.
That’s incredible. Writing, art, music, and the work which allows creatives to express themselves and convey their messages and emotions to an audience is such an impactful way of bringing about change.
Yes I do suffer from Climate Anxiety and rather a lot of other anxieties as well.
I can relate!
Right now I worry more about the prospect of war – which would make the climate crisis a lot more deadly.
That’s very true, and another terrifying prospect.
Yes I suffer from climate anxiety, not so much for myself, but for my kids. It is future generations that will take the brunt of the problem. On the other hand, we’ve made progress in reducing emissions or at least halting the growth of emissions. Most developed nations have reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 20-40% (since 2005) and China and India are close to halting the growth of theirs. That may not be enough to keep us below 1.5C but much better than the course we were on 20 years ago when almost every nation was on a steep increase in GHG emissions. Solar and wind power are finally gaining a strong foothold, even here in Texas, and so are EVs. I was just in Sweden and Norway and EVs were quite common. Most new car sales in Sweden and Norway are EVs. Sweden has pledged carbon neutrality by 2045 and are actually on track to succeed. At least there is hope.
I’m worried for the future generations, too, especially since the environmental issues and dangers of climate change are at a boiling point. But you’re right, there is still good news and many wonderful people working to minimize and even reverse the crisis. Thank you for sharing these facts. In a time like this, where things can often look hopeless and it’s difficult to see the bright side, every little bit counts and we must celebrate the wins.
Our future on this planet does not look good. We dismiss or deny climate science at our peril.
It’s just terrifying. At this stage, finding the positives are difficult. But I commend all the incredible environmentalists, scientists, conservationists, public figures, and ordinary people who are working to reverse or bring awareness to the damage.
Yes, I do. Greed dominates the planet and too many in power choose to ignore the problem or say it does not exist.
The unfortunate truth. It’s devastating to think that so many powerful people with the ability and resources to do so much are neglecting the issue, when we could be doing significantly more to save our planet.