In this episode of So Climatic, Cassandra speaks with Dr. Jade Sasser, an associate professor at UC Riverside and author of “Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question,” about the complex emotions and considerations surrounding having children in the era of climate change. Dr. Sasser shares her research on how climate anxiety is shaping the reproductive decisions of younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of navigating climate emotions, and the need for a justice-centered approach to addressing the climate crisis.

Guest Bios:

• Dr. Jade Sasser is an associate professor at UC Riverside and author of “Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question” and “On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women’s Rights in the Era of Climate Change.” She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation about climate anxiety, parenthood, and the complexities of navigating these issues in a changing world.

Key Takeaways:

• Generational Differences: Dr. Sasser highlights the generational differences in how people experience and respond to climate change, emphasizing the unique anxieties faced by younger generations. 

• Climate Anxiety and Parenthood: The conversation explores the complex emotions surrounding the decision to have children in the context of climate change, including anxiety, grief, and the desire for a better future. 

• The Importance of Community: Dr. Sasser emphasizes the crucial role of community support in navigating climate anxiety and raising children in a changing world. 

• Beyond Overpopulation: She challenges traditional narratives around overpopulation, highlighting the importance of considering social inequality and the outsized impact of powerful institutions. 

• Climate Justice: The episode underscores the need for a justice-centered approach to addressing climate change, recognizing the disproportionate impacts on marginalized communities. 

• Finding Resources and Support: Dr. Sasser shares valuable resources for parents and individuals struggling with climate anxiety, including books, organizations, and climate-aware therapy.

Relevant Links:

• Book:“Climate Anxiety and the Kid Question” by Jade Sasser 

• Book:“On Infertile Ground: Population Control and Women’s Rights in the Era of Climate Change” by Jade Sasser 

• Book:“Parenting in a Changing Climate” by Elizabeth Bechard 

• Organization:Climate Mental Health Network 

• Resource:Climate Emotions Wheel (from the Climate Mental Health Network) 

• Documentary:“The Climate Baby Dilemma” 

• Book:“Gen Dread” by Britt Wray 

• Organization:Moms Clean Air Force 

• Book:“Lessons for Survival” by Emily Raboteau 

• Book:“The Quickening” by Elizabeth Rush 

• Book: “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer 

• Book: “The Last Fire Season” by Manjula Martin