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Youth Eco-Anxiety: Hope vs. Despair
6 Feb
Summary
- Canadian youth report significant anxiety and powerlessness over climate change.
- Experts emphasize including children in climate discussions and validating their feelings.
- Medicine Hat, Alberta, plans a major solar farm despite its "Gas City" reputation.
A 2023 study indicates that at least 56% of Canadian youth experience fear, sadness, and anxiety regarding climate change, with 78% reporting negative impacts on their mental health. Experts like Professor Catherine Malboeuf-Hurtubise emphasize the necessity of including children in climate discussions, as they will face the most severe consequences. She advocates for collective action and validating their feelings of despair and hopelessness.
Events like CBC Kids News' "Hope or Nope" aim to provide a platform for youth to voice their concerns. Despite their fears about irreversible damage and corporate greed, some youth, like Midu Nguyen, find hope in the idea that their generation could lead future corporations and drive change from within. Climate scientist Simon Donner also stresses the importance of genuine, frank conversations about solutions.
In Alberta, the city of Medicine Hat, historically known as "The Gas City," has unanimously approved the construction of a $131.5 million solar farm, Saamis Solar Park. This 75-megawatt project, with potential for expansion, aims to attract new businesses and provide carbon levy savings. Despite some local opposition citing potential utility cost increases, city officials maintain the project is economically driven and will not impact taxes or bills.
