Empowering Families: How Bridget Phillipson Can Transform the Child-Rearing Climate

In a recent discussion about why more young people in the UK should consider having children, Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary, missed an important point. Many students worry about the future of our planet due to climate change. Research published in The Lancet in 2021 and a follow-up study in 2024 found that 38% to 52% of young people are hesitant to have kids because they fear there won’t be a safe place for them to grow up.

This anxiety can lead to two outcomes: it can spark positive action, or, if ignored, it may result in hopelessness. With a curriculum review coming this autumn, it’s crucial that climate education becomes a priority in all subjects. Students need to grasp the reality of climate change and explore possible solutions.

Paul Atkin from the National Education Union Climate Change Network emphasizes that failing to equip students with this knowledge leaves them unprepared for today’s world.

Contextual Insight: The mounting anxiety among young people isn’t just a personal concern—it reflects a larger societal issue. In the past few years, surveys reveal an increase in climate-related stress, especially among Gen Z. For instance, a study by the American Psychological Association in 2022 showed that 76% of Gen Z report feeling stressed about climate change. This disconnect between education and real-world concerns demands immediate attention.

Moreover, a 2024 survey found that 70% of young adults believe it’s essential for schools to teach not only about climate change but also about how to tackle it. This indicates a growing desire for proactive education.

In sum, integrating climate education into the school curriculum isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. It prepares students to thrive in a world where they can influence change.

For more on youth climate anxiety and solutions, check out this American Psychological Association report.

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