Whiteness & Climate Crisis

Whiteness of the Climate Crisis: Eco-Anxiety and the Racial Dimensions of Climate Change

Introduction:

The climate crisis is not only an environmental issue but also a deeply intertwined social and racial justice concern. While climate change affects everyone, its impacts are not distributed equally. Marginalized communities, particularly communities of colour, bear the brunt of the climate crisis. In this article, we will explore the racial dimensions of climate change, the concept of eco-anxiety within marginalized communities, and the urgent need to address the whiteness of the climate crisis.

1. Environmental Racism and Climate Change:

Environmental racism refers to the disproportionate exposure of communities of colour to environmental hazards and the unequal distribution of environmental benefits. These communities often face higher levels of pollution, lack of access to clean air and water, and increased vulnerability to climate-related disasters. The intersection of race and climate change exacerbates existing social inequalities, perpetuating systemic racism and environmental injustice.

2. Eco-Anxiety in Marginalized Communities:

Eco-anxiety is not experienced uniformly across all communities. Marginalized communities, already burdened by systemic racism and socioeconomic disparities, face additional stressors related to the climate crisis. These communities often lack the resources and infrastructure to adapt to climate change impacts, leading to heightened anxiety and fear for their safety and well-being. It is crucial to acknowledge and address the unique experiences of eco-anxiety within marginalized communities.

3. Climate Change as Racist:

Climate change is -ARGUABLY- not inherently racist, but its impacts and responses can perpetuate racial inequalities. The policies and practices surrounding climate change mitigation and adaptation often prioritize the needs and perspectives of privileged communities, further marginalizing and excluding communities of color. This systemic racism within climate action perpetuates the whiteness of the climate crisis and hinders progress towards equitable and just solutions.

4. Intersectional Approaches to Climate Justice:

To address the racial dimensions of the climate crisis, it is essential to adopt intersectional approaches to climate justice. This means recognizing and addressing the interconnectedness of race, class, gender, and other social identities in climate action. Centering the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, particularly communities of color, is crucial for developing inclusive and effective climate policies and initiatives.

5. Building Solidarity and Taking Action:

Addressing the whiteness of the climate crisis requires collective action and solidarity. It is essential for individuals, organizations, and governments to actively listen to and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, support grassroots movements led by communities of color, and advocate for policies that prioritize environmental justice. By working together, we can challenge the systemic racism embedded within climate change responses and create a more equitable and sustainable future.

Conclusion:

The climate crisis is not a race-neutral issue. Its impacts disproportionately affect marginalized communities, while the responses often perpetuate racial inequalities. Recognizing and addressing the whiteness of the climate crisis is crucial for achieving climate justice. By centering the experiences and voices of communities of color, adopting intersectional approaches, and taking collective action, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable response to the climate crisis. Only through dismantling systemic racism can we create a sustainable future that benefits all.

I highly recommend this book: Climate Change is Racist by Jeremy Williams - an excellent review of which is here: https://writeoutloudblog.com/2022/01/16/book-review-climate-change-is-racist-race-privilege-and-the-struggle-for-climate-justice-by-jeremy-williams/

CLIMATE JUSTICE & COP28

Climate Justice and the Critique of COP 28: Towards a More Equitable and Effective Global Climate Response

Introduction:

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is an annual gathering of countries under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to discuss and negotiate global climate action. While COP meetings play a crucial role in shaping international climate policy, they have faced criticism for their limited progress in addressing climate justice. In this article, we will explore the concept of climate justice, the critique of COP 28, and the urgent need for a more equitable and effective global climate response.

1. Understanding Climate Justice:

Climate justice recognizes that the impacts of climate change are not distributed equally and that those who contribute the least to the crisis often bear the greatest burden. It emphasizes the need to address historical and ongoing social, economic, and environmental injustices in climate action. Climate justice calls for the inclusion of marginalized communities, the recognition of human rights, and the pursuit of equitable and sustainable solutions.

2. Critique of COP 28:

a. Lack of Ambition: One of the main critiques of COP meetings, including COP 28, is the lack of ambition in setting and achieving climate targets. Many argue that the commitments made by countries are insufficient to limit global warming to safe levels and fail to address the urgency of the climate crisis.

b. Inadequate Financial Support: Another criticism is the inadequate financial support provided to developing countries for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. Wealthier nations have been slow to fulfill their commitments to provide climate finance, hindering the ability of vulnerable countries to address the impacts of climate change.

c. Limited Representation of Marginalized Communities: COP meetings have been criticized for their limited representation of marginalized communities, particularly those from the Global South and indigenous communities. Their voices and perspectives are often marginalized in decision-making processes, leading to policies that do not adequately address their unique challenges and needs.

d. Lack of Accountability: The lack of accountability mechanisms within the COP process is another concern. Countries often fail to meet their commitments, and there is a lack of consequences for non-compliance. This undermines the effectiveness of global climate agreements and hinders progress towards climate justice.

3. Towards a More Equitable and Effective Global Climate Response:

a. Strengthening Ambition: COP 28 and future meetings must prioritize setting ambitious and science-based targets to limit global warming. This includes phasing out fossil fuels, transitioning to renewable energy, and implementing nature-based solutions. Additionally, countries should commit to regular and transparent reporting on their progress towards these targets.

b. Financial Justice: Wealthier nations must fulfill their commitments to provide climate finance to support developing countries in their climate efforts. This includes not only financial support but also technology transfer and capacity-building initiatives to ensure a just transition to a low-carbon economy.

c. Inclusive Decision-Making: COP meetings should prioritize the inclusion and meaningful participation of marginalized communities, indigenous peoples, and civil society organizations. Their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives are essential for developing effective and equitable climate policies.

d. Strengthening Accountability: COP 28 should establish robust accountability mechanisms to ensure countries meet their commitments. This can include regular reviews, transparency in reporting, and consequences for non-compliance.

Conclusion:

Climate justice is a fundamental aspect of addressing the global climate crisis. While COP meetings play a crucial role in shaping international climate policy, they have faced valid criticism for their limited progress in achieving climate justice. COP 28 presents an opportunity to address these concerns and pave the way for a more equitable and effective global climate response. By strengthening ambition, providing financial justice, prioritizing inclusive decision-making, and establishing accountability mechanisms, we can work towards a future that is both environmentally sustainable and socially just.

Living with Eco-Anxiety

Living with Eco-Anxiety: Navigating the Emotional Toll

Introduction:

The climate crisis has become an undeniable reality, and its impact on our planet is causing increasing concern and anxiety among individuals worldwide. For some, this anxiety takes the form of eco-anxiety, a specific type of anxiety related to the environment and the future of our planet. In this article, we will explore the concept of eco-anxiety, its causes, and strategies for coping and taking action in the face of the climate crisis.

1. Understanding Eco-Anxiety:

Eco-anxiety is a psychological response to the climate crisis and the fear of environmental degradation. It is characterized by feelings of helplessness, fear, and distress about the future of the planet. Individuals with eco-anxiety may experience a sense of guilt, sadness, or anger, as well as a constant preoccupation with environmental issues. It is essential to recognize that eco-anxiety is a valid emotional response to the climate crisis and that many people are grappling with these feelings.

2. Causes of Eco-Anxiety:

Eco-anxiety can stem from various factors, including the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, the loss of biodiversity, and the slow progress in addressing the climate crisis. Media coverage and social media can also contribute to eco-anxiety by constantly highlighting the severity of the situation. Additionally, the feeling of personal responsibility and the pressure to make a difference can intensify eco-anxiety. Understanding the causes can help individuals navigate their emotions and take constructive action.

3. Coping with Eco-Anxiety:

Managing eco-anxiety requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual well-being and collective action. Here are some strategies to cope with eco-anxiety:

   a. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and spending time in nature. Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial for resilience and emotional well-being.

   b. Seek Support: Connect with others who share your concerns and feelings. Join local or online communities focused on climate action and mental health to find support, share experiences, and learn coping strategies.

   c. Educate Yourself: Gain a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and its complexities. Knowledge can empower you to take informed action and alleviate feelings of helplessness.

   d. Take Action: Engage in climate activism and advocacy. Participate in local initiatives, support organizations working towards sustainability, and use your voice to raise awareness about the climate crisis.

   e. Practice Mindful Consumption: Make conscious choices in your daily life to reduce your carbon footprint. This can include adopting sustainable habits like reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly products and services.

4. Shifting Perspectives: From Anxiety to Empowerment:

While eco-anxiety can be overwhelming, it is essential to shift our perspective from fear and helplessness to empowerment and hope. Recognize that individual actions, combined with collective efforts, can make a significant impact. Focus on the positive changes happening globally, such as renewable energy advancements and increased awareness of environmental issues. By channeling our anxiety into constructive action, we can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Conclusion:

Living with eco-anxiety in the face of the climate crisis is a significant challenge for many individuals. By understanding the causes of eco-anxiety and implementing coping strategies, we can navigate our emotions and take meaningful action. Remember that you are not alone in your concerns, and by joining forces with others, we can create a collective movement towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Let eco-anxiety be a catalyst for positive change and a driving force for a healthier planet.

Climate & Generational Gap

The Climate Crisis and Mental Health: Bridging the Generational Gap

Introduction:

The climate crisis is not only an environmental issue but also a significant concern for mental health. The impact of climate change can be felt across generations, with young people and older adults experiencing unique challenges and concerns. In this article, we will explore the intersection of the climate crisis and mental health, highlighting the generational differences and the importance of bridging the gap to address these shared concerns.

1. Young People: Anxiety and Eco-Anxiety:

Young people today are growing up in a world where the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident. They are witnessing extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and the loss of biodiversity. This exposure can lead to anxiety and eco-anxiety, a specific form of anxiety related to the environment. Young people may feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the crisis and the uncertainty of their future. It is crucial to provide them with support, education, and opportunities for activism to empower them to take action and cope with their anxiety.

2. Older People: Grief and Loss:

For older adults, the climate crisis can evoke feelings of grief and loss. They have witnessed the changes in the environment over their lifetime and may mourn the loss of familiar landscapes, species, and a sense of stability. Older adults may also worry about the legacy they are leaving for future generations. It is essential to acknowledge their experiences and provide spaces for them to share their stories and wisdom. Engaging older adults in climate action can help them find purpose and hope in making a positive impact.

3. Bridging the Generational Gap:

To address the climate crisis and its impact on mental health, it is crucial to bridge the generational gap and foster intergenerational dialogue and collaboration. Young people can learn from the experiences and wisdom of older adults, while older adults can benefit from the energy and fresh perspectives of the younger generation. By creating spaces for meaningful conversations, mentorship programs, and joint initiatives, we can foster understanding, empathy, and collective action.

4. Building Resilience and Coping Strategies:

Both young people and older adults can benefit from developing resilience and coping strategies to navigate the mental health challenges associated with the climate crisis. This can include practicing self-care, seeking support from mental health professionals, engaging in nature-based therapies, and participating in community resilience-building activities. By building individual and collective resilience, we can better cope with the emotional toll of the climate crisis and work towards sustainable solutions.

5. Advocacy and Action:

Taking action is a powerful way to address the mental health impacts of the climate crisis. Young people can engage in youth-led movements, advocate for policy changes, and participate in climate activism. Older adults can use their influence and experience to support and amplify the voices of young activists. By working together, we can create a sense of agency, hope, and purpose, which are essential for mental well-being in the face of the climate crisis.

Conclusion:

The climate crisis affects mental health across generations, with young people experiencing anxiety and eco-anxiety, and older adults grappling with grief and loss. By bridging the generational gap, fostering dialogue, and engaging in collective action, we can address these shared concerns. Building resilience, practicing self-care, and advocating for sustainable solutions are crucial steps towards protecting mental health in the face of the climate crisis. Together, we can create a future that is both environmentally and mentally sustainable.

Social Pressures for Vegan Transition

Title: Navigating Social Pressures: The Challenges of Transitioning to a Vegan Lifestyle

Introduction:

Embarking on a vegan journey can be an empowering and fulfilling decision. However, it's important to acknowledge that transitioning to a vegan lifestyle often comes with its fair share of social pressures and challenges. In this blog, we will explore some of the common social pressures faced by individuals when turning vegan and provide tips on how to navigate them with grace and confidence.

1. Dealing with Criticism:

One of the most significant social pressures faced by vegans is criticism from friends, family, and even strangers. People may question your choices, challenge your beliefs, or make derogatory comments. It's essential to remember that everyone has their own perspective, and not everyone will understand or support your decision. Stay true to your values, educate yourself about veganism, and respond to criticism with patience, kindness, and factual information.

2. Social Gatherings and Dining Out:

Attending social gatherings or dining out with non-vegan friends and family can be challenging. You may find limited vegan options or face pressure to compromise your values. To navigate these situations, communicate your dietary preferences in advance, offer to bring a vegan dish to share, or suggest vegan-friendly restaurants. By being proactive and open-minded, you can ensure that social events remain enjoyable while staying true to your vegan principles.

3. Peer Pressure and Fitting In:

Turning vegan can sometimes make you feel like an outsider, especially if your friends or social circle have different dietary choices. You may face pressure to conform or feel isolated. Remember that your decision to go vegan is a personal one, driven by your values and beliefs. Seek out like-minded individuals by joining vegan communities, attending vegan events, or connecting with online platforms. Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals can help you feel more confident and less affected by peer pressure.

4. Family and Cultural Expectations:

Family traditions and cultural expectations can pose unique challenges for vegans. Traditional family recipes may contain animal products, and your dietary choices may clash with long-held beliefs. Approach these situations with empathy and understanding. Offer to help modify recipes to make them vegan-friendly or suggest alternative dishes that align with your values. Engage in open and respectful conversations with your family, explaining your reasons for choosing a vegan lifestyle.

5. Overcoming the Fear of Missing Out:

The fear of missing out on certain foods or experiences can be a common social pressure for new vegans. It's important to remember that veganism is not about deprivation but rather about embracing a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle. Focus on the abundance of delicious vegan options available and explore new recipes and cuisines. Seek out vegan alternatives for your favorite dishes and remind yourself of the positive impact you are making on your health, the environment, and animal welfare.

Conclusion:

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle can be a transformative and rewarding experience. However, it's crucial to acknowledge and address the social pressures that may arise along the way. By staying true to your values, educating yourself, seeking support from like-minded individuals, and approaching challenging situations with empathy and understanding, you can navigate social pressures with confidence and grace. Remember, your decision to go vegan is a powerful choice that aligns with your beliefs and contributes to a more compassionate and sustainable world.

Veganism & Climate

Veganism and Climate Change: A Sustainable Solution for a Greener Future

Introduction:

In recent years, the impact of our dietary choices on the environment has become a topic of increasing concern. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, many individuals are turning to veganism as a sustainable solution. This article explores the connection between veganism and climate change, highlighting the environmental benefits of adopting a plant-based lifestyle.

1. The Environmental Toll of Animal Agriculture:

Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. The production of meat, dairy, and eggs requires vast amounts of land, water, and feed, leading to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By choosing a vegan diet, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

2. Lowering Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

Livestock farming is responsible for a substantial portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. According to the United Nations, animal agriculture accounts for approximately 14.5% of all human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. By eliminating animal products from our plates, we can reduce these emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.

3. Land Use and Deforestation:

Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation, as vast areas of land are cleared to make way for livestock grazing and feed crops. Deforestation not only contributes to carbon emissions but also destroys vital habitats and threatens biodiversity. By adopting a vegan lifestyle, we can help preserve forests and protect the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

4. Water Conservation:

Animal agriculture is a water-intensive industry, requiring vast amounts of water for animal hydration, feed crops, and processing. By choosing plant-based alternatives, we can conserve water resources and alleviate the strain on freshwater ecosystems. It takes significantly less water to produce plant-based foods compared to animal products, making veganism a sustainable choice for water conservation.

5. Sustainable Food Production:

Veganism promotes sustainable food production by focusing on plant-based sources of nutrition. Plant-based diets require fewer resources, such as land, water, and energy, to produce an equivalent amount of calories compared to animal-based diets. By shifting towards plant-based agriculture, we can create a more sustainable and efficient food system.

6. Supporting Renewable Energy:

The transition to a vegan lifestyle aligns with the broader shift towards renewable energy sources. As the world moves away from fossil fuels, reducing our reliance on animal agriculture can contribute to a cleaner and greener energy future. By supporting sustainable practices and renewable energy initiatives, vegans can play an active role in combating climate change.

Conclusion:

Veganism offers a powerful solution to address the environmental challenges posed by climate change. By adopting a plant-based lifestyle, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, conserve water resources, protect forests, and support sustainable food production. As we strive for a greener future, veganism emerges as a practical and effective way to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable world for generations to come.

My first Climate Cafe

I had been wanting to go to a Climate Café for what seemed like a long time, at least a few months; but every time the Climate Café date rolled around, other obligations and priorities seemed to get in the way. Finally in February 2023 I managed to lever myself out of the family enmeshment of the Sunday whirlwinds and cycle down to the Friends’ Meeting House in Brighton. I hadn’t booked a ticket as I wasn’t clear if that was compulsory. I slid into the room filled with a circle of quiet strangers, sat on hard chairs waiting the facilitators. I was ushered towards some tea and biscuits, and then found my place in the circle. I discovered that many more people than expected had turned up , over 30, and so the hosts, Adele and Mick had split the group into 2 circles in separate rooms. There were even late arrivals sat on the stairs outside, holding their own impromptu ‘fringe climate café’!

The experience was entirely transformational. Whilst it was far from a rousing, inspirational call to action, it allowed deep shift of acceptance within me around my grief and anger that liberated my energies. Adele ensured everyone was clear of the ground rules, outlined by the Climate Psychology Alliance. Feelings, not actions were the focus of the group. She facilitated very ably even though it was her first time – everyone had their turn and she gently reminded people if they veered into actions rather than feelings.

For 90 minutes we formed a close, holding space for listening and accepting everyone’s diverse range of feelings about the unravelling climate crisis. It was such a relief to finally be in a room of people who evidently cared as much as me. Not only had they bothered to all get to the climate café, but also the isolating, constricting and crushing silence created by the social taboo around climate change was temporarily extinguished. I heard myself speak passionately, desperately and darkly about the our future and our children’s future and my exasperation that in general no one seemed to notice or care. And yet, paradoxically I felt validated, released from the grip of desolate thoughts by sharing them and feeling truly heard and understood by a room full of 15 others who ‘got it’.

I left uplifted and fundamentally changed. I now have more energy to act, more resilience and motivation to do what I can in the time I have. My responsibility and awareness does not weigh me down anymore, it energises me. As do attending regular climate cafes. I have trained in climate café facilitation and now co-host in Lewes, and plan to set up others in Brighton. These are the next dates of the Brighton Climate café – Saturday September 9th and Lewes Climate Café Tuesday August 8th. Find out more details on my Facebook and Instagram acocunts or on MeetUp https://www.meetup.com/brighton-climate-c-meetup-group/events/294844014/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=share-btn_savedevents_share_modal&utm_source=link. There are also regular online climate cafes via the CPA website here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/climate-psychology-alliance-29918075735

Get connected and find others who care. Resilience is not found within people, it is found between people. Now more than ever we need resilience and community to face our uncertain futures.

“This is what Climate Leadership looks like!”Jennifer Uchendu – Climate, Youth & Mental Health Activist & Ecofeminist

One unseasonably wet and hot Tuesday afternoon in mid-July, a Climate Café buddy and XR comrade met me at Brighton Train Station. We were heading into town, for an “Evening with Jennifer Uchendu”[i] at ONCA – ONCA is a “space for change” [ii], an “arts charity that bridges social and environmental justice issues with creativity.”[iii] Jennifer Uchendu, one ONCA’s trustees and a researcher publishing on eco-anxiety as experienced by young people of colour, did not disappoint.

Throughout the talk, Jen spoke with integrity and gravitas on the many practical ways she has mobilised climate conscious youth in Nigeria to form community and take action; and how she has personally challenged overwhelming institutional inertia and responded with deep learnings and research on our psychological responses to the global existential threat of the unfolding climate crises. We, eco-anxious activists of the audience, were all moved Jen’s story; it speaks to how we can all reclaim ourselves as powerful and resourceful activists, in the face of overwhelm and hopelessness.

In 2016, Jennifer launches Sustyvibes[iv] in Nigeria, a sustainability blog which highlighted the intersection of eco-emotions with justice and climate crisis. Sustyvibes rapidly evolved from a blog to a structured nonprofit organisation. Over 700 members or “Sustyvibers” of youth groups focus on environmental and climate action[v]. Sustvibes aims to make the climate crisis “cool, relatable and actionable”. Sustyvibes’ core focus is on Education – going into schools to make young people aware of the problem and get them thinking about solutions. They plant trees in schools and are starting an upcycling scheme.

Our relationship with nature or the more-then-human is evidently a big part of her work, linked with gender equality and justice through her ecofeminism. Jennifer describes her early relationship with nature and experiences of eco-grief and anger when the mango tree in her compound was cut down. At the age of 5 she was struck by the injustice and outraged by this loss to their community. Jennifer emotively linked her understandings of the forms of oppression on nature and on women underpinning her eco-feminism. Ecofeminism is actioned through Sustyvibes to empower women and at the same time protect environment. Jennifer noted the absence of women in environmental policy space and advocated a different way for sharing and distributing power. For example, training girls in the Niger delt in photo journalism, where oil spills, biodiversity loss and oppression and violence is rife, agency of youth can be at the centre of the conversation.

Uchendu highlighted that in the crucible of the polycrisis humanity is currently living with - inflations and biodiversity crisis – care for ourselves and care for each other are crucial. Her ethos is to reawaken people’s consciousness – to realise that we are not powerless. She discussed how previously people in her country had felt poverty and food was a bigger problem. And yet, our life support system, the environment is what provides this food and poverty, or lack of wealth and abundance. Therefore, we must become advocates for our environment.

Jennifer became and climate and mental health researcher in 2022, launching Africa research on eco-anxiety because “we have to tell our stories”. The more

problems we see the more opportunities young people have to take action.

[vi] Jen has co-authored an international research study with 23 young people across 15 countries to amplify the voices of young people of colour and their first hand feelings about the climate crisis. These include anger, powerlessness, betrayal and hopelessness. There is a sense that people in power are not listening or fighting on their behalf. “Many of us so regularly experience invalidating responses that we feel we have been ‘gaslighted’ – as if there is something wrong with us for caring about the unjust impacts and roots of the crisis.”[vii]

[viii]

Naming and validation eco-anxiety is vital for the intersection of mental health and climate change.

Jennifer eloquently spoke of the dissonance and “burden of hope” young people experience around the climate crisis. Whilst often young people’s voices are excluded or tokenised in policy making spheres, their anxiety and grief is compounded by the sense of powerlessness. She spoke ardently about the sense of hopelessness in Nigeria where the economy is dependent on fossil fuels, and yet “systems designed to exploit the environment also exploit our future”. The chair of the COP28 also being oil chief highlighted as a kind of meta gas-lightening, undermining the entire point of the meetings.[ix] Uchendu described her experience of attending COP22 as being her “peak eco-anxiety”. She realised then she would either give up, dive deep into the research on eco-anxiety. Fortunately, she did the latter, and realised that listening to exploring these deep emotions help us wake up and start to care.

Climate change is here. Last year one million people were displaced in Nigeria alone. We can’t just give up because of COP. The “toll of awareness” is huge, and there is an “urge to stop”. Her friend Britt Wray, recently wrote a book, “Generation Dread”[x] Uchendu discussed the widening divide between generations is part of the crisis and disconnect. She is part of a team conducting Intergenerational conversations on climate in Lagos, UK and USA for research Standford University, involving individuals over the age of 55 and younger people between 18 and 30 years of age. Including Elders and their wisdoms, helping older people feel included and develop agency and resilience within and between generations, amplifying their stories to enable an “all hands on deck” approach to facing the climate crisis: It’s “Just one place we all have”. During the discussion of “intergenerational” conversations and alliances around the climate crisis, I was reminded of the truth and reconciliation processes in post-apartheid South Africa and Northern Ireland.[xi]

Her ethos in the face of overwhelm and burnt out with eco-anxiety and international institutional ineptitude, corruption and inaction in the unravelling climate crisis, is “to keep lighting different matches”. Jennifer also find resilience in her “gratitude for the community we have formed” with Sustyvibes in Nigeria. She talked about her Christian faith as a huge source of support for her. She said she is still writing the project on role of spirituality in her work on eco-anxiety. In a recent interview with Jen on the Black Earth podcast, Marion Atieno Osieyo surmised that “eco-anxiety is a tool for collective liberation”[xii]. Jen reinforced this with “your liberation is bound with mine” and that radical compassion is the key. I am deeply grateful for Jen’s sharing her talk, as it moves me from a sense of shame-bound privilege[xiii] to energised responsibility and “radical compassion”.

REFERENCES:

[i] https://onca.org.uk/event/an-evening-with-climate-justice-advocate-jennifer-uchendu/

[ii] https://onca.org.uk

[iii] ibid

[iv]Sustainability Movement for Young Africans  https://sustyvibes.org

[v] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SustyVibes

[vi]“Not about us without us” – the feelings and hopes of climate-concerned young people around the world

 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09540261.2022.2126297

[vii] ibid

[viii] ibid

[ix]Carrington, D. (2023)  ‘Absolute scandal’: UAE state oil firm able to read Cop28 climate summit emails Guardian, June 2023

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jun/07/uae-oil-firm-cop28-climate-summit-emails-sultan-al-jaber-adnoc

[x] Wray, B. (2022) Generation Dread: Finding Purpose in an Age of Climate Crisis. Knopf Canada Publishers

[xi] “A truth and reconciliation commission is an official body tasked with discovering and revealing past wrongdoing by a government or other actors, in the hope of resolving conflict left over from the past.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truth_and_Reconciliation_Commission#:~:text=A%20truth%20and%20reconciliation%20commission,left%20over%20from%20the%20past.

[xii] Black Earth Podcast: All the feels: understanding eco-anxiety with Jennifer Uchendu interviewed by Marion Atieno Osieyo https://www.blackearthpodcast.com/episodes/episode-2-all-the-feels-exploring-eco-anxiety-with-jennifer-uchendu

[xiii] Jeremy Williams contends that owning our priviledge by seeing it as means to greater responsibility for action can unlock the shame-blame paralysis of white-priviledged individuals: Williams, J. (2021) Climate Change Is Racist Race, Privilege and the Struggle for Climate Justice. Bolinda Publishing PTY Ltd