Weight of the World: National Survey Reports Majority of U.S. Youth Distressed About Climate Change

If the future health of the planet weighs heavy on your mind, you aren’t alone. A new study finds widespread distress among young Americans about climate change across the political spectrum, as well as a strong desire for action toward change.

The 2023 survey is the largest of its kind, including thousands of respondents 16-25 years old from every state. Results show that the vast majority — 85 percent — are worried about climate change, with distress running high across political ideologies. The study was led by researchers from universities across the U.S., including Peter Howe from the Quinney College of Natural Resources.

In almost all states, at least half of youth reported being very or extremely worried about the threat of a changing climate. The majority said that their concerns are affecting future life decisions such as where to live and whether to have children. Two-thirds of respondents believe that climate change will threaten their health.

As people experienced impacts from climate-related weather events such as hurricanes and extreme temperatures, their reported distress and desire for action increased, according to the survey. More than three-quarters of respondents wanted the U.S. government to work toward preventing the worst impacts of climate change, and for other governments to collaborate to execute a global plan. There was similarly strong consensus around corporations and the education system taking action.

“As impacts from climate change increase around the world, the social and psychological consequences are becoming really apparent,” said Howe, a professor from the Department of Environment and Society. “Extreme weather events like we’ve seen lately in the news cause more harm than just physical and environmental damages. It’s also taking a toll on the way we think about our future.”

This kind of existential distress is often rooted in feelings of uncertainty, lack of control and concerns over well-being or safety, according to the authors. A powerful strategy to combat these feelings is to take action where you can, focusing on what you can control.

“That’s one reason we are supporting academic programs like the new undergraduate certificate in Climate Change Solutions for any major at USU, as well as sustainability resources across campus,” Howe said. “We want students to build knowledge and skills, to understand that there are ways to work toward solutions and to feel empowered to personally contribute to positive changes.”

Results from the survey suggest that as the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, the emotional, psychological and behavioral consequences for young people might also intensify. Those surveyed reported dissatisfaction with the current actions of those in positions of power, in government and in business, and want these leaders to take more meaningful actions to address climate change.

“The more I learn about the science behind climate change, the more I recognize the urgency that needs to be reflected in our national conversations,” said Chloe Francis, undergraduate student in QCNR. “I believe it's important for policymakers to take prompt and effective action, and I would like to see more streamlined legislative processes, bipartisan support, and financial backing that enable important issues like climate change to be addressed efficiently. Despite my concern, I remain hopeful that increased awareness, education and action can drive meaningful change.”