Children and young people fear UK Government no longer cares about climate change, says RCPCH report

A report by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has highlighted an alarming surge in eco-anxiety amongst children and young people.

The detailed study dives deep into the younger generation’s understanding and first-hand experiences of climate change, both in the UK and internationally.

The research, named ‘Preserving the world for future generations: Children and young people’s perspectives on how to tackle climate change’, depicts the profound concerns children harbour regarding our planet.

A startling number of these young minds are grappling with “eco-anxiety” or “eco-distress”, a chronic fear stemming from potential environmental doom and UK governmental inactivity.

Key findings from the report include:

• Almost half of UK participants between 16-25 are profoundly concerned about climate change.
• Globally, a staggering 75% found the future to be unnerving, with 83% lamenting humanity’s lacklustre stewardship of Earth.
• Over half believed their generation faces a doomed future and dwindling opportunities compared to their parents, primarily because of climate change effects.

When RCPCH &Us workshops probed about the health impacts of climate change, mental health was the predominant concern. Climate-induced fears spanned from anxiety, anger, stress to a palpable dread of losing homes.

The issue hits close to home for many young Britons. Those from Northamptonshire explicitly highlighted flooding fears and the broader environmental consequences of melting ice caps.

They also expressed sentiments that climate change has been normalised and that there’s a glaring “lack of caring about climate change” from authorities.

While the findings are grim, the report also champions the robust understanding children and young people have on climate change.

The surveyed individuals voiced a plethora of actionable solutions ranging from improved public infrastructure and sustainable housing to better access to green spaces, education, and health services.

Dr Camilla Kingdon, RCPCH President, stressed the evident mental toll climate concerns are exacting on our youth. Dr Kingdon lamented governmental reticence in pivotal environmental decisions but also celebrated the youth’s passion and feasible solutions to climate challenges.

Dr Katie Knight, Chair of the RCPCH Climate Change Advocacy Group, reiterated the gravity of climate change as a healthcare crisis. She emphasized the paramount role of health professionals in this narrative and the necessity of a multi-faceted approach. She urged the government to recognise these challenges and act decisively for a hopeful future.

A participant from the RCPCH &Us Climate Changers group accentuated the college’s proactive role and applauded the inclusivity of young voices in such crucial dialogues.

With the future of our planet resting on young shoulders, it is high time their concerns are genuinely heeded, and swift, meaningful actions are taken.