Meet the Moms Leading the Charge for Climate Justice: Inspiring Stories of Change

Chelsea always dreamed of being a mom. But then 2020 changed everything.

As COVID-19 surged, Chelsea, like many others, withdrew into her home, shielded from a hidden threat. The Black Lives Matter protests highlighted systemic issues, while Portland, Oregon, where she lives, was engulfed in smoke from devastating wildfires.

As a therapist, Chelsea observed the toll these events took on mental health. Uncertainty clouded her aspirations for motherhood. “It didn’t feel like a safe time to bring a child into the world,” she shared, opting to keep her identity private.

Climate change continues to affect family planning. Many people, becoming more aware of the environmental impacts of having children, are reconsidering parenthood altogether. Yet, a growing number of mothers are banding together to advocate for climate justice, ensuring a safe and sustainable future for their children.

“We all want our kids to have clean water, healthy air, and a stable future,” said Jenny Zimmer, co-executive director of Mothers Out Front. Their demands are simple yet vital.

The effects of climate change on maternal and child health are alarming. A 2019 study revealed that rising temperatures correlate with increased rates of preterm births. Other research highlights links between pollution and difficulties such as infertility and pregnancy complications. For instance, climate-related factors like rising sea levels can even increase risks of diseases like malaria for pregnant women.

This year, the World Health Organization emphasized the urgent need to protect mothers and children from climate threats, underscoring a critical gap in current health policies.

According to sociologist Kris Natalier, “Natural disasters disproportionately harm women and children.” As extreme weather events like floods and wildfires escalate, these vulnerable groups face immediate dangers and long-term challenges.

Many mothers already experience climate change’s effects firsthand. Lauren Leader, who co-founded All in Together, noted how climate issues often confine children indoors, exacerbating conditions like asthma. During her time on a local board, flooding became a constant concern in her community. “Moms were at the forefront, battling the impacts of climate change,” she explained.

For many mothers, joining advocacy groups like Mothers Out Front is a way to alleviate their climate anxiety. They want to make meaningful changes in their communities, such as pushing for cleaner school transportation or better water quality.

Many women also collaborate with groups like Moms Clean Air Force and Science Moms, uniting to fight for climate reparations.

“The best antidote to despair is action,” said Zimmer. “When moms organize, they become powerful advocates for change.” Individual actions matter, but collective efforts are essential in addressing the broader climate crisis.

Zimmer actively involves her children in local advocacy, helping them understand community responsibility. “It’s crucial they see their parents fighting for a better future,” she noted.

Ryan Filler from Memphis expressed concern about having children in a world affected by climate change. He and his partner chose to have one child, grappling with the responsibility their decision carries. “I want her to experience a healthy planet,” he reflected.

Research supports these sentiments. A 2023 survey found that over 50% of participants indicated climate change influenced their decision not to have kids. “It’s no surprise that many feel uncertain about bringing children into this world,” said Almeta E. Cooper, head of Health Justice at Moms Clean Air Force.

In the U.S., declining birth rates have been a concern for years. Some political leaders propose incentives to encourage family growth, arguing that a declining population could stifle innovation and solutions to the climate crisis. Yet, the broader issues must be addressed first. “You need a healthy environment to increase the birth rate,” Cooper emphasized.

Despite political debates, many women feel the weight of these interconnected challenges. Chelsea, reflecting on her own family planning, faced tough choices during the pandemic. After much contemplation, she decided to try for a child, realizing the importance of family. “I’d rather regret doing something than not doing it,” she said, recalling her mother’s advice.

After some struggles with fertility treatments, Chelsea is now expecting. She integrates sustainable choices into her parenting, opting for secondhand baby products and sharing transportation with her partner. “I can’t control everything, but I can control how I respond,” she said, maintaining a hopeful outlook despite the challenges of climate change.

“I believe something will shift with climate change,” she stated. Chelsea embraces hope and is determined to raise her child in a supportive environment.

In today’s world, the choices around parenthood are complex, influenced by climate concerns, health, and future uncertainties. However, through collective efforts and community engagement, mothers are paving the way for a healthier future, showing their children the power of activism and resilience.

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