UCL study suggests girls more anxious about climate change than boys

Research led by University College London appears to reveal significant gender and socioeconomic disparities in how students perceive and engage with climate change education. 

The study suggests that girls are more likely to worry about climate change and are more engaged in climate education compared to boys. It also claims students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds showed less interest and enjoyment in learning about climate change.

The UCL Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education conducted a survey of 2,429 students aged 11-14 from 30 English schools between March and May 2024. The research aimed to understand students' experiences and perceptions of climate change education within and beyond the school curriculum.

The survey results indicated that 36% of students worry ‘a lot’ or ‘all the time’ about the future due to climate change, with an additional 50% worrying ‘a little’. A significant gender difference was observed, with 44% of girls expressing high levels of worry compared to 27% of boys. Overall, 53% of students reported feeling anxious about climate change, and only 16% believed that adults are doing enough to address environmental issues.

The study also highlighted that students surveyed from lower socioeconomic backgrounds appear less likely to value or enjoy learning about climate change. Only 31% of students believed that learning about climate change might lead to job opportunities, and just 17% expressed interest in a sustainability-related career. This interest was even lower among less advantaged students, with only 14% considering a green career path.

A majority of students (73%) expressed a desire to learn more about climate change and sustainability through outdoor activities and interaction with nature. There were also gender differences in the topics of interest, with 75% of girls wanting to learn about the impact of climate change on human health and wellbeing, compared to 60% of boys.

Professor Nicola Walshe, Executive Director of the UCL Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education, stated:

“Three quarters of the girls surveyed wanted to learn about how climate change impacts human health and wellbeing, compared to 60% of boys.

“We know climate anxiety is higher among girls, so a more holistic climate change education that addresses a broader range of areas, including health and wellbeing, may help mitigate young people’s worries.”