Green Warriors : How Generation Z is Reshaping Environmental Activism
In recent years, Generation Z has emerged as a powerful force in the fight against climate change, bringing unprecedented energy, innovation, and urgency to environmental activism. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, this generation is not only acutely aware of the climate crisis but is also taking bold steps to address it, often in the face of significant psychological stress.
The Weight of Climate Anxiety :
Generation Z is grappling with a unique psychological burden known as « climate anxiety » or « eco-anxiety. » A recent global study revealed that 45% of young people aged 16 to 25 reported that climate anxiety was affecting their daily lives. This pervasive sense of dread is not unfounded; it stems from a deep understanding of the climate crisis and its potential consequences.
A Near-Death Experience felt by Gen Z :
For many in Gen Z, the climate crisis feels like an imminent threat to their future. This sense of impending doom is often described as a « near-death » experience regarding climate change. As Amit Singh, a member of the Youth Climate and Health Network (YCHN), points out, communities in countries like India, Latin America, and Africa have been experiencing the personal impacts of climate change for much longer than those in more developed nations.
Turning Anxiety into Action :
Digital Activism : as digital natives, Gen Z leverages social media and online platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for environmental causes. Their strong social media literacy keeps them connected to global events, including climate disasters.
Career Choices : a KPMG survey found that 20% of Gen Z job seekers rejected job offers due to companies’ perceived misalignment with their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values. This willingness to prioritize environmental concerns over personal economic considerations is reshaping the job market.
Grassroots Movements : gen Z has been at the forefront of global climate strikes and protests. The Fridays for Future movement, initiated by Greta Thunberg, is a prime example of how young people are demanding action from world leaders.
Educational Initiatives : many Gen Z activists are focusing on climate education. Organizations like Break the Divide, founded by Abhay Singh Sachal, aim to connect young people globally to discuss climate change and mental health issues within their communities.
The Impact on the Corporate World :
Gen Z’s environmental concerns are forcing businesses to reassess their practices:
Sustainability as a Core Value : companies are increasingly adopting science-based emission targets and creating clear, actionable plans for decarbonization to appeal to Gen Z consumers and employees.
Workplace Culture Shift : corporations are recognizing the need to address climate anxiety in the workplace. This includes offering climate resources, establishing cross-functional sustainability teams, and maintaining open channels for employees to share feedback on sustainability efforts.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities :
While Gen Z’s environmental activism is inspiring, it also faces challenges:
Burnout Risk : the constant engagement with climate issues can lead to burnout. As Sachal notes, there’s a « deep sense of burnout, from taking climate action in a physical sense to the emotional and mental burnout that comes from viewing all the world’s issues through a climate lens ».
Bridging Generational Gaps : there’s a need to unite different generations in the fight against climate change. Companies and institutions must find ways to harness Gen Z’s passion while leveraging the experience and resources of older generations.
Policy Influence : as more Gen Z individuals reach voting age, their environmental priorities are likely to shape political landscapes and policy decisions in the coming years.
In conclusion, Generation Z’s approach to environmental activism is characterized by a unique blend of digital savvy, global awareness, and personal commitment. While grappling with significant climate anxiety, this generation is transforming their concerns into powerful advocacy and action. As they continue to enter the workforce and political sphere, their influence on environmental policies and corporate practices is likely to grow, potentially reshaping our approach to the climate crisis in profound ways.
References :
https://sustainableearthreviews.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42055-024-00075-w
https://climateandhealthalliance.org/article/how-gen-z-are-taking-on-eco-anxiety/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/03/240305134319.htm
https://e360.yale.edu/features/for-gen-z-climate-change-is-a-heavy-emotional-burden
https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/content/genz-millennialsurvey.html
Image credit : Protesters march to demand action against global climate change on Sept. 20, 2019, in New York City. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
