Research released today by education charity, Another Way, has revealed that students actively involved in climate change projects in their schools/colleges are being prevented from taking part in initiatives due to peer pressure and bullying from classmates.
The findings have found a pervasive culture of fear and intimidation in schools for those trying to take action. Over half (59%) of secondary school children surveyed have experienced negative impacts as a result of being involved in environmental initiatives, with a quarter (25.8%) facing teasing or verbal bullying and over one in ten (12%) students being physically bullied.
But it’s not just in the classroom where climate-conscious students are being targeted; almost one in six (15%) say that they have experienced cyberbullying as a result of sharing climate content on social media.
Media also plays a role in exacerbating the issue. Over two thirds (70%) of students say that the way that climate activists are portrayed in the media as ‘troublemakers’, means that they are less likely to be proactive in climate efforts because of a fear of being associated with them.
The findings also found that climate change is affecting children’s mental health. Despite 60% of secondary school children agreeing they have experienced ‘eco anxiety’ in the past, over half (51%) say it has become worse in the last year. Of those who have experienced ‘eco anxiety’, three quarters (75%) agree they would feel less anxious about climate change if they felt like they could help more. Additionally, more than half of students (54%) believe the school curriculum doesn’t prepare or give them the knowledge to fight the climate crisis.
In response to these findings, Another Way has launched ‘Power of 10’, a digital community, accessed by web or mobile app, to support young changemakers. The app provides access to support information, activities, resources, events, talks, and opportunities to speak to other young changemakers who may be facing similar challenges in its forum.
Amy Bray, CEO and founder of Another Way, a charity set up to empower people to live with kindness towards our planet, and who became a noted climate activist at an early age, said: “The future of this planet depends on young people being able to speak out and make change. Young people experiencing eco-anxiety need greater support, we are urging schools to create more inclusive and supportive environments for climate action.
“As the climate crisis continues to loom large, young people are not only looking for solutions—they are demanding space to act, free from the fear of being judged or bullied. It’s a call to action for both schools and society to listen and empower the next generation of climate leaders.”
Amy hopes that her important work to support and celebrate young changemakers across the UK means that no other young person has to go through the challenges and struggles she faced.
You can find more information about where to seek advice if you or somewhere you know is experiencing bullying as a result of your actions here: https://another-way.org.uk/its-cool-to-care/