Join Waverley Council and Planet Ark for a planting event to combat eco-anxiety
By Jennifer McMillan 21 May 2024
Planet Ark is teaming up with Waverley Council to host a tree planting event in June. The day will be filled with activities to slow the mind, connect with nature and combat feelings of eco-anxiety.
In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, many are increasingly worried about climate change and its impact on the planet, their communities, and their lives. Research by Orygen, youth mental health not-for-profit, found that two-thirds of young Australians said climate concerns are having a negative impact on youth mental health.
'Climate distress’ or ‘eco-anxiety’ are terms used to describe these feelings of worry, fear and distress that individuals experience in response to climate change and environmental degradation. Climate distress refers to specific issues related to climate change, while eco-anxiety is a broad term encompassing a wider range of environmental issues.
Encouraging people to take individual and collective climate action has been identified as a potential intervention for climate distress. Orygen’s research outlines that young Australians have indicated engaging in pro-environmental activities can provide a sense of hope, help them feel like part of the solution, and make them feel like they are being heard. ‘Taking action’ has been recommended by the Australian Psychological Society as a means of addressing eco-anxiety.
Right now, the world’s problems seem intractable. But there’s a simple action that can make things better – tackling climate change, cleaning the air, providing refuge from the heat, and strengthening communities. The act of planting a seedling in the ground, covering its roots with rich soil and giving it some water is a powerful act of hope.
Join the National Tree Day community by:
Volunteering at one of the planting events held around the country
Hosting a National Tree Day event
Donating to the Seedling Bank
Join Waverley Council and Planet Ark for coastal regeneration for the superb fairy wren, yoga and meditation, and nature arts and crafts. Sign up directly to the Humanitix link to secure your spot.
Jen worked as a vet nurse while studying environmental science and completing her master's degree in Journalism. She loves bushwalking, storytelling, caring for baby animals, Australian birds and river red gums. Jen works on the National Tree Day campaign and Planet Ark's Seedling Bank.
