News about the climate crisis alerts us to the urgent need for drastic global changes. Given this, it’s not surprising that one study surveying thousands of young people found most respondents were worried about climate change, and over 45 percent said worries about climate change affected them daily.
Taking climate action is one proposed way to reduce climate anxiety by turning negative emotions in response to the reality of urgent challenges into positive action.
Engaging with food systems presents a major opportunity to act on the climate crisis, as they contribute 21 to 37 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Both home-based discussions with parents or caregivers and school curriculums have a place in helping young people connect relationships with food to advocating for change to food systems or making more sustainable choices to benefit our shared planetary health.
Impact of daily choices
Many of us rarely consider the impact our daily food choices have on the environment. Those that do seldom see our own potential in engaging with and transforming the food system beyond eating on the basis of conscience. Recognizing our role in the food system can be empowering, as it presents opportunities to act on the climate crisis.
Read the entire article at The Conversation