President Joe Biden's new American Climate Corps is designed to address climate change while providing green jobs and potentially alleviating climate anxiety among young people.
In short:
- The American Climate Corps offers jobs restoring wetlands, installing solar panels, and addressing climate anxiety.
- Many young people are unsure how to take effective climate action, which contributes to widespread eco-anxiety.
- Structured, hands-on work with clear goals can alleviate the distress associated with climate change.
Key quote:
“There’s something about, ‘Here is a clear job with a clear timeline and a clear local goal. I can, like, put my hands in the dirt.’'"
— Kidus Girma, campaign director of the Sunrise Movement
Why this matters:
The American Climate Corps not only fights climate change but also provides mental health benefits by giving young people purposeful work, fostering social support, and building psychological resilience. Read more: Robbie Parks on climate justice and mental health.
