Australia’s environmental efforts are facing a rough patch. With bushfires, loss of species, and fragile ecosystems, the number of volunteers stepping up to help is shrinking. This decline comes at a time when we need support the most.
The trend shows that volunteering rates are falling across the country, worsened by economic pressures. A recent report from Volunteering Australia highlights the troubling fact that many new volunteers leave within their first year. This is especially harmful for environmental groups that rely heavily on volunteers.
Recent research from the Climate Perspectives project reveals key insights about why younger volunteers are struggling. The study found a deep generational divide in feelings about climate change. Volunteers over 30 show more hope, while those under 30 often feel hopeless.
One participant, 25-year-old Shreyasi Baruah, shared her thoughts on this divide: “It’s hard to reconcile that our planet is burning while we’re absorbed in daily struggles.” But she also feels a spark of hope when she sees the efforts of others. This emotional challenge takes many forms. Female volunteers report feeling more impacted by climate anxiety than their male counterparts. Younger volunteers also share deeper personal connections to climate issues, shaped by their formative years witnessing intensifying climate disasters.
Despite these feelings, many volunteers remain active. They engage in recycling, reducing waste, and participating in environmental initiatives. A significant driving force for these volunteers is their desire to contribute to meaningful change. Interestingly, volunteers born outside Australia tend to be more engaged and aligned with environmental values, suggesting that cultural diversity can strengthen volunteer networks.
However, motivation doesn’t always translate to retention. Those who take on extended tasks tend to have different motivations compared to those who don’t. Research shows that volunteers focused on career development are more likely to stick around. This can lead to a gap where those motivated purely by values may struggle without the right support. Unfortunately, many smaller environmental organizations lack the resources to provide that support.
Shreyasi points out the challenges facing volunteers: “Cost of living pressures make it hard. If I didn’t worry about money, I’d volunteer more.” Her fear is that a decrease in volunteer numbers could lead to a disconnect from environmental issues. She calls for government action on systemic challenges that could free more people to help out.
The findings from research shed light on the urgent needs of environmental organizations. They must focus on volunteer training and create a supportive environment that recognizes the various motivations of volunteers. However, many of these organizations feel the strain of having to do more with fewer resources. For example, Planet Ark has faced financial challenges, as have other groups dedicated to environmental protection.
Our environmental future relies on community involvement. To encourage continuous participation, we need strong support from the government, philanthropy, and society. Recognizing that environmental work is essential—not optional—can help sustain these vital efforts.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that fostering a supportive environment for volunteers is crucial. When communities come together, they can make a meaningful impact.
Ben Goodsell is the Director and Principal Scientist at The Climate Centre, with extensive qualifications in oceanography and environmental science.
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