Abstract
Background
Climate change poses a major threat to global public health, including mental health. Beyond direct effects from extreme weather, anxiety about climate change may impact wellbeing, particularly among people in particular occupational sectors. This study investigates levels of climate anxiety across European countries in relation to individuals’ occupations and industries.
Methods
Data were drawn from the 8th and 11th rounds of the European Social Survey (2016/17 and 2023/24), including 45,541 working-age participants (15-64 years) from 20 countries. Climate anxiety was measured by self-reported worry about climate change on a 5-point scale, dichotomised to identify those very or extremely worried. Occupation was coded using ISCO-08 and industry using NACE. Multilevel logistic regression assessed associations between occupation, industry, and climate anxiety, including changes over time.
Results
Climate anxiety was highest in Portugal and lowest in Poland. Overall, it rose from 34.8% in 2016 to 40.2% in 2023, with the largest increase in Austria. Professionals and managers showed the highest levels and greatest increases. In terms of industry, workers in education (OR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.49-1.93) and information/communication (OR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.35-1.77) reported the highest levels, compared to those in agriculture, forestry and fishing. The largest increases were among those in education and energy sectors, with most sectors showing upward trends.
Conclusions
Climate anxiety is rising among certain occupational groups in Europe, particularly in the education and energy sectors. As the climate crisis intensifies, ongoing monitoring and supportive policies are needed to protect workers’ physical and mental health.
Key messages
• This study reveals rising climate anxiety among European workers, especially in education and energy sectors.
• The study highlights the need for targeted occupational support and climate-resilient workplace policies.