Climate change invokes anxiety among youths regarding future implications. Many reevaluate life decisions due to climate fears and have witnessed the impacts firsthand. The current political backdrop enhances these worries, and marginalized communities bear the brunt of climate-related risks. Engaging in climate policy, such as internships, offers a remedy for this anxiety by promoting active participation in legislative changes. Grassroots organizations can help youth become involved and advocate for effective solutions to combat climate change.
Climate change poses a significant threat worldwide, generating anxiety among younger populations. Many young individuals experience distress regarding their future, leading some to reconsider life choices, including family planning, due to climate concerns. Events like the devastating Marshall fire and extreme weather in California have made the impacts of climate change more tangible for youth in affected regions.
The current political climate, including the promotion of fossil fuels and withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, aggravates this anxiety. Scientific consensus attributes climate change primarily to fossil fuel combustion, leading to catastrophic weather patterns. Currently, the planet is nearing a critical warming threshold of 2 degrees Celsius, beyond which extreme weather events are predicted to escalate.
Marginalized communities face heightened vulnerability to climate-related hardships and possess limited resources to mitigate the impacts, such as extreme heat and deteriorating air and water quality. These conditions disproportionately affect their health outcomes, worsening ailments like asthma and heart disease.
To address my climate anxiety and gain insights into climate policy, I accepted an internship focused on climate issues. I became involved in Class VI well rulemaking at Colorado’s Energy and Carbon Management Commission, which oversees long-term carbon storage regulations. My goal was to promote stricter regulations than those set by the EPA, aligning them with Colorado’s ambitious climate goals.
During my internship, I researched existing laws from states with regulatory authority over carbon storage and assessed the risks of potential atmospheric leaks from these facilities. Moreover, I crafted a public commentary toolkit to help citizens engage in the rulemaking process. Although the final regulations were not as robust as hoped, my participation fostered a sense of hope for future climate initiatives.
Many young people feel disconnected from legislative processes that affect climate action. Despite their inclination towards environmental studies, few are aware of crucial rulemakings that can drive climate efforts. This gap perpetuates isolation and climate anxiety, making the issues seem insurmountable. However, I found that any participation, no matter how small, made climate advocacy feel more tangible.
To enhance public engagement in climate action, grassroots organizations such as 350 Colorado and WildEarth Guardians offer volunteer opportunities and invaluable resources. Joining these organizations can enhance your understanding of current initiatives and how to contribute effectively. For those unable to volunteer, utilizing toolkits provided by these organizations can facilitate public comments on climate-related rules. Regularly contacting elected officials to express support for climate initiatives can also amplify their importance.
Ultimately, Colorado’s climate commitments must translate into actionable policies that prioritize ending fossil fuel reliance. The commitment to achieving net-zero emissions must be followed through with substantial regulatory changes to fulfill the promises made to future generations. This is crucial for reinforcing the value of sustainability for both current and future citizens.
In conclusion, climate change continues to fuel anxiety among younger generations, impacting their life choices and well-being. Political decisions and fossil fuel dependence further exacerbate these concerns. However, active participation in climate policy, even in small ways, can alleviate feelings of hopelessness. Engaging with grassroots organizations and advocating for stronger regulations can contribute to meaningful climate action and ensure that promises made to future generations are kept.
Original Source: coloradosun.com
