Hope for a Better Future, Not Just Optimism, Drives Climate Action
A deep desire for a better future, rather than mere optimism that climate change will be solved, is a stronger motivator for environmental action, according to three studies conducted in Israel and the United States. Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that a strong wish to live in a healthy environment with accessible natural resources, even at personal and public cost, is more consistently linked to environmental engagement than the belief that climate problems will be resolved.
These findings challenge the long-held view among psychologists and climate scientists that hope is essential for climate activism. The new research, published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, surveyed over 1,100 participants across Israel and the U.S. across three separate studies. The consistent results indicated that individuals who strongly wished for climate progress were more likely to report pro-environmental behaviors and support climate policies, even when controlling for political views, climate beliefs, social norms, self-efficacy, and demographics.
In contrast, the belief that climate change is likely to be solved showed weaker, often non-significant, correlations with climate action. The researchers explain that hope comprises two distinct psychological components: 'wish' (how much people desire a better future) and 'expectation' (how likely they believe that future is to materialize). The 'wish' dimension consistently predicted greater environmental involvement, while 'expectation' alone had much weaker effects.
The study's implications extend beyond academia. While climate campaigns often highlight technological breakthroughs or positive forecasts, the findings suggest that advocates might achieve greater impact by helping people connect emotionally to the value of protecting the Earth, irrespective of the certainty of success. This approach emphasizes the power of deep caring and a strong desire for change, even against difficult odds, as a driving force for sustained action.
