How nature and action can help calm eco-anxiety

It’s understandable to be worried about the future of our planet. From extreme heat and weather events to nature loss and air pollution, it’s not called the climate and ecological crisis for nothing. Two-thirds of Brits are concerned about climate breakdown, but there are things we can do to feel better and calm eco-anxiety.

5 actors, photographed by award-winning photographer Tom Oldham, take us to some of their most cherished outdoor spaces, showing the importance of green space for wellbeing. They also share their concerns about the planet, and how they’re taking action to tackle eco-anxiety.

Charlotte Richie photographed by Tom Oldham

Charlotte Ritchie

The lead in BBC sitcom “Ghosts”, Charlotte took us to the beautiful RSPB Rainham Marshes in Essex.

“I’ve always spent a lot of time in nature, and it is really important to me that the beautiful environments that I enjoy remain unharmed by climate change. The more we get to know our local spaces, the more inspired we will be to protect them.”

Himesh Patel

Himesh chose the stunning Beachy Head in Eastbourne. The Emmy-nominated actor has starred in the satirical comedy “Don’t Look Up”, in which an impending comet strike acts as an allegory for the current lack of climate action.

“Being photographed in the incredible landscape at Beachy Head is particularly meaningful for me as I’ve been able to find solace there in the last few years.

“Experiencing the beauty and benefits of nature shows the urgent need to protect our environment and take action to prevent climate breakdown, so that we can ensure future generations have a world that’s worth growing up in.”

Callum Scott Howells

A breakout star from Channel 4 drama “It’s a Sin”, Callum was photographed in Richmond Park, a tranquil retreat from the hubbub of London.

“The climate crisis is something I think about, and I know how it feels to lie awake at night worrying about the future of our planet. It’s hard to know what to do to support the climate movement but I know that doing something is more helpful than doing nothing at all – and we can all do something.”

Taking action to live more sustainably can help us feel more hopeful

Top 10 tips to beat eco-anxiety

Saffron Hocking

Saffron picked another lovely green spot in London – Hilly Fields Park in Enfield. She’s best known for her role in the hit TV series “Top Boy”.

“I’ve definitely become more concerned about the climate crisis but I’m trying to be more proactive in how I can do my bit. Talking about what we are all doing to support our planet can help us all feel a little more hopeful about its future.”

Will Poulter

Emmy-nominated actor and Marvel star, Will brought us to Camley Street Natural Park, a unique urban nature reserve in North London.

‘‘Climate change is a real worry and not something we should ignore.

“Being able to understand the climate crisis a bit more through research and information from experts like Friends of the Earth has helped me get an idea of the progress we need to see and what we can all do to help.”

As these actors have shown, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the threats to our environment. Yet Mother Nature is a great source of calm and comfort. Head on out to your local green space for some peaceful time with the planet.

Take a look at our top 10 tips for combating eco-anxiety, with simple actions you can take to live more sustainably.

And team up with like-minded folk in your community by joining one of our local action groups and working together to protect the planet. Pushing for action on climate and nature is a great way to feel less alone and be part of a powerful movement working for a fairer, greener future.

Join a group near you