Science – Countering climate anxiety

The prestigious international journal Nature recently reported on the deep and pervasive levels of anxiety about climate change among young people. The data reflecting this anxiety are striking: Extremely worried (27%), Very worried (32%), Moderately worried (25%), A little worried (11%) and Not worried (5%). The feelings caused by climate change are as follows: Sad (68%), Afraid (68%), Anxious (63%), Angry (58%), Powerless (57%), Guilty (51%), Optimistic (32%) and Indifferent (30%).

Generation Z (born 1997-2012) have every reason to believe that they will be victims of climate change over the coming 80 to 100 years that has been caused mainly by baby boomers (born 1946-1964), Generation X (1965-1980) and even to some extent by Millennials (1981-1996). The younger generations will feel they have inherited an existential problem from older generations who at times reveal indifference or skepticism about the approaching dangers. Thirty years ago, the distinguished NASA scientist James Hansen told the US Congress that worsening climate warming was a serious problem to be addressed with urgency. Hansen’s caution was largely ignored by Congress and the international community, much to the astonishment of his scientific colleagues at the time.

What advice can one give our wonderful, idealistic, motivated, gifted, transformational younger generations, especially as they contemplate their future careers? I suggest devising a personal vision to give yourself a practical role in finding solutions to this critical challenge.

Firstly, remind your young friends and family that 80 per cent of New Zealanders regard climate change to be a serious matter and less than 10 per cent are true climate deniers.

Secondly, that the governments of about 100 countries have adopted zero-carbon targets and the New Zealand Government is one of several countries that have legislated zero-carbon targets.

Thirdly, that practical pursuit of climate remediation in New Zealand and elsewhere lies with the private sector and the consumer community, as well as with government leadership. So, seek to understand the major New Zealand economic sectors, including the rural, manufacturing, retail, and transportation sectors. Then find opportunities to engage with the climate response strategies of these sectors.

Fourthly, I urge all young people to understand not just the problems created by climate change, but also the rapidly expanding, exciting, global renewable technology solutions and the associated opportunities. Consider getting yourself qualified in renewables development (solar and wind energy, batteries, transportation, robotics, artificial intelligence and so on), with a view of having a career in the renewables sector here or overseas.

Renewable technologies around the world are projected, following a hard pandemic year, to enter a period of unparalleled growth – from $1000 billion in 2000 to more than $2000 billion by 2030. The growth will include the creation of higher-paid and higher-technology jobs.