When groups focused on team-building mingled at a retreat center in New York’s Hudson Valley, one group stood out due to their relentless laughter. Someone from another group inquired, “Who are you guys?”
This joyful assembly was composed of climate activists, working to address the pressing issue of climate change—a topic often cloaked in despair and sacrifice.
Across the globe, activists, educators, and psychologists are employing laughter, dance, hugs, and most notably, joy, to tackle one of humanity's greatest challenges. Initiatives geared towards psychological well-being are sought to alter the discourse surrounding climate change, with a focus on community and happiness instead of loss and sacrifices, particularly as Earth Day transforms into a day of awareness and celebration since its establishment in 1970.
“Joy is crucial for us to connect with one another,” states Katharine Wilkinson, who led the Hudson Valley seminar that garnered attention from the other groups. “The question is how we engage with the positive aspects as the world faces enormous challenges.”
Wilkinson argues that joy acts as fuel for the fight against fossil fuel reliance and emits harmful gases that accelerate global warming. In her presentation at American University, she framed joy and empowerment as essential tools for delivering the vision for a better future, even amidst tumultuous times.
Psychologists endorse this outlook as a healthy and constructive coping mechanism.
Kim-Cohen states, Laughter offers various physiological benefits, including reduced blood pressure and relaxation of the nervous system. It helps connect us and alleviate the heaviness of climate issues.”
Confronting Hard Realities
This approach isn't about ignoring the harsh realities. Christiana Figueres, former chief of the UN climate negotiations, stresses the importance of acknowledging pain and discomfort
“We must not shy away from grief or eco-anxiety, as they are inescapable parts of this journey,” she explains. Yet she advocates for channeling this into constructive action, comparing it to transforming food waste into nutrient-rich compost.
At these seminars, participants learn the art of welcoming difficult emotions. This, in turn, opens the way for joyful expressions like dancing and play.
A New Narrative
For decades, activists have encouraged people to reduce their consumption as a way to combat climate change. However, experts believe that emphasizing sacrifice could backfire. “If our call to action means persuading people to surrender their joys, we’re going to lose that battle,” suggests Elizabeth Dunn, a behavioral psychologist.
“Our book promotes the idea that one can indulge in joyful activities while maintaining a low carbon footprint. We want to foster sustainable behaviors through the power of pleasure,” Zhao elaborates. “If people find happiness in their actions, they are more likely to continue.”
Dunn uses the example of biking to work, asserting, “Doing something enjoyable makes it easier to persist with it.”
Wilkinson’s seminar also inspired Kim-Cohen, who faced burnout in activist circles that felt draining. “I left with a heart full of love and positivity.”
Students in related classes express newfound energy and empowerment regarding climate discussions—leaving sessions uplifted rather than defeated.
