Chapter 4

Our Brain And Climate Change

INTRODUCTION

Climate change presents the most pressing challenge of our time, demanding urgent and coordinated action from governments, businesses, and individuals alike. Addressing this complex issue requires an understanding of not only scientific and technological aspects, but also the human behaviors and psychological factors that drive our responses to the crisis.

The Psychology of Climate Change

Action on climate change starts and ends with understanding how we perceive this global challenge, and its significance for our own lives. Psychologist and climate communication expert Per Espen Stoknes’ seminal work What We Think About When We Try Not to Think About Global Warming examines the psychological dimensions underpinning collective inaction on climate change.

The Climate and Mental Health Crisis

Nearly one in five US adults struggles with mental illness, and an increasing amount of research indicates that climate change can exacerbate these mental health challenges. The latest IPCC reports highlight the profound mental repercussions of climate events — with 20-30% of those experiencing hurricanes facing depression or PTSD in the subsequent months, with similar rates in flood survivors.

Human Psychology for Catalyzing Action

How climate change is framed will influence how people perceive it, and therefore what actions they are willing to take. By framing climate change as an urgent problem that requires immediate action, as well as an opportunity to create a better future rather than a sacrifice, we can motivate people to take personal action