Sustainability and eco-anxiety: Strategies for addressing environmental concern

Titolo Rivista RIVISTA DI STUDI SULLA SOSTENIBILITA'
Autori/Curatori Fabrizio Liguori, Hani Amir Aouissi, Concetta Paola Pelullo
Anno di pubblicazione 2025 Fascicolo 2025/1Suppl.
Lingua Inglese Numero pagine 10 P. 121-130 Dimensione file 0 KB
DOI 10.3280/riss2025oa19772
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Although there is still no unanimous definition of eco-anxiety, this term is used to describe an emerging phenomenon which, in recent years, has attracted the attention of psychologists, sociologists and those involved in Public Health. It refers to a form of anxiety and worry related to climate change and for the future of the planet and its resources. This article explores how eco-anxiety can influence environmental awareness and sustainability practices, highlighting both challenges and opportunities it presents for promoting a sustainable future. While these feelings towards the environment and climate change can generate anxiety, it can also act as a powerful driver of change and awareness in promoting sustainability. Therefore, it is crucial to develop strategies that transform eco-anxiety into positive action, supporting individuals, particularly more vulnerable, in their transition to more sustainable practices.

Although there is still no unanimous definition of eco-anxiety, this term is used to describe an emerging phenomenon which, in recent years, has attracted the attention of psychologists, sociologists and those involved in Public Health. It refers to a form of anxiety and worry related to climate change and for the future of the planet and its resources. This article explores how eco-anxiety can influence environmental awareness and sustainability practices, highlighting both challenges and opportunities it presents for promoting a sustainable future. While these feelings towards the environment and climate change can generate anxiety, it can also act as a powerful driver of change and awareness in promoting sustainability. Therefore, it is crucial to develop strategies that transform eco-anxiety into positive action, supporting individuals, particularly more vulnerable, in their transition to more sustainable practices.

Parole chiave:; climate change; concern; eco-anxiety; environment; sustainability

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Fabrizio Liguori, Hani Amir Aouissi, Concetta Paola Pelullo, Sustainability and eco-anxiety: Strategies for addressing environmental concern in "RIVISTA DI STUDI SULLA SOSTENIBILITA'" 1Suppl./2025, pp 121-130, DOI: 10.3280/riss2025oa19772