The climate crisis is not just an environmental and economic issue, it is also deeply emotional. Fear, anxiety, grief, and hopelessness are common responses to climate change, especially among young people. These climate emotions can hinder engagement with environmental issues, often leading to paralysis rather than action. Despite possessing the knowledge, technical solutions, and strategies for sustainable transformation, society has yet to reach a true breakthrough in consolidating change. A major challenge remains: effectively involving people, especially youth, in this transition while supporting their emotional resilience.
Our profit-oriented growth paradigm, which has led to the overuse of resources, is not being seriously questioned from a socio-political perspective. As a result, necessary climate protection measures are being delayed or completely blocked, and the remaining window of opportunity is shrinking. This contrasts sharply with scientific findings, creating emotional pressure, which climate activists have been addressing with increasing urgency.
Emotional pressure, in turn, triggers emotional counter-pressure (also as a defence against fear and powerlessness), further polarising public discourse instead of uniting people in the fight against climate change. Instead of institutions, companies, and individuals making meaningful contributions, responsibility is shifted away, and opportunities for action are underutilised. Feel4Climate aims to bridge this gap by recognising and addressing the emotional, social, and psychological dimensions of the climate crisis. By integrating environmental psychology with climate activism, the project empowers young people to navigate their climate emotions in constructive ways.
What does the project aim to achieve?
- Emotional expression – Many young people experience strong emotions about the climate crisis, including fear, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Feel4Climate provides a supportive environment for them to express and process these emotions.
- Community and connection – The project fosters a sense of community among young people who share similar concerns, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and build solidarity.
- Empowerment and agency – Feel4Climate serves as an educational tool, helping young people understand the science of climate change and potential solutions. By deepening their understanding, it empowers them to advocate for change and make informed decisions in their own lives.
- Coping strategies – Climate-related anxiety and distress are increasingly common among young people. Feel4Climate provides resources and strategies to help them manage these emotions, promoting resilience and well-being in the face of environmental uncertainty.
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Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.