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This event explores uncovering what we feel about climate change and how this impacts our ability to act.
Big sheets of paper, pens, a stone, computer
GOAL:
YOU NEED:
1. Kickoff
INSTRUCTIONS
Emotions A-Z Competition:
This game gets people playfully thinking about the emotions linked with climate change. They come up with as many emotions as possible. Alternatively, if you don't have big sheets of paper or flip charts, you can use
Polleverywhere to create a wordcloud.

DISCUSSION:
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Which of the emotions listed do you most often feel when you think about climate change?
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How do we as humans generally deal with these types of emotions?
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How do you think these emotions impact our reaction to the crisis?
2. Food for Thought
INSTRUCTIONS:
Watch 'Textbook Trauma: The emotions of climate change' (8.30 min) where scientists Sara Myhre and Jeffrey Kiehl discuss the emotional impacts of climate change.
DISCUSSION:
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Can you relate to any of the things that were discussed?
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Do you think understanding the complex emotions around climate is helpful? Why/why not?
3. Brainstorm
INSTRUCTIONS:
'If a feeling of overwhelm and negative feelings about the crisis do not inspire the most creative, resilient and capable in us, what does?'
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4. Action
INSTRUCTIONS:
The fear of facing the reality of climate change makes many of us look the other way and continue with business as usual. In this video, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an American politician, speaks about fear, courage and the importance of each and everyone of us in moments of crisis. Even though the clip is focused on the presidential election, there are many parallels that can be drawn to the climate crisis. Think about these similarities while watching to discuss after the video: Turning fear into the fuel propelling us forward (4.18 mins).
DISCUSSION:
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What parallels did you find?
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What do you think is the right thing to do in this moment of time?
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What do you want to give?
5. Love Letters to the Planet
INSTRUCTIONS:
Ultimately, community and our love for this planet will give us the strength to fight for Planet Earth and our future. When feeling doubtful and overwhelmed, remembering what we value can give us the strength to continue on our way. Share with the group the beauty that motivates you.
6. Toast
INSTRUCTIONS:
Brainstorm a one sentence summary of the event; something that stood out, something you enjoyed. Finish the event by raising the glasses to this.
Deep Dive
If you are interested to find out more about the emotions around climate change, check out the below resources. For even more information head to the resource section.
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Renee Lertzman: Changing Climate Anxiety into Action
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Per Espen Stoknes: How to transform apocalypse fatigue into action on global warming