A recent survey shows young people are more anxious about climate change than older generations and believe companies should support climate and disaster causes.
How does climate anxiety impact giving and shape expectations for corporate philanthropy?
GlobalGiving UK partnered with Professor Hanna Zagefka, Head of Psychology at Royal Holloway University of London, to explore this question and more. The results build understanding of what motivates people to donate in times of crisis.
The survey was conducted with 1,200 UK-based respondents aged 18 to 82 in April 2024.
The survey found that in the UK climate anxiety is higher among young people in comparison to older generations, which makes them more likely to support those affected by climate-related events. In fact, 90% of people experiencing high climate anxiety are motivated to donate to those affected by climate related events, compared with 58% of those experiencing low levels of climate anxiety.
As the climate crisis worsens, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report reveals that climate crisis induced disasters are already more severe than initially anticipated by scientists, and further warming is inevitable. Some 362 million people now require humanitarian assistance globally, but funding for humanitarian aid is lagging behind the growing demand.
Prominent climate advocates and movements have significantly increased media visibility, online attention, and public awareness of climate issues. This media exposure has brought climate concerns to the forefront, resonating deeply with younger generations, who are increasingly in favour of supporting climate and disaster causes.
The survey results revealed that women of all ages and young people between 18-29 were significantly more likely to experience climate anxiety, as well as being more inclined to donate to such causes. With over 40% of Gen Z and millennials changing jobs or industries, or planning to, because of environmental concerns, it’s evident that companies need to prioritise CSR and climate change initatives to remain relevant and appealing to this demographic.
A key finding from this survey revealed that young people (aged 18-29) believe companies have a responsibility to donate to disaster relief funds, including those related to climate change.
73% of young people believe companies have a responsibility to donate to disaster relief funds.
Supporting CSR and climate change initiatives is crucial as the escalating climate crisis poses unprecedented risks to the planet and future generations. Climate change impacts many aspects of life, from extreme weather events that threaten communities to disruptions in food and water supplies, and the loss of biodiversity. By getting involved, companies can contribute to mitigating these effects, supporting the transition to a more sustainable and resilient world. Proactive involvement also drives innovation, promotes sustainable economic growth, and ensures that policies and practices evolve to address environmental challenges.
Employees who engage in and advocate for CSR initiatives, bridge the company with the wider community, boosting the brand’s credibility and trust. Their genuine commitment can also inspire peers, creating a ripple effect that drives collective positive action within the organisation. Employees are at the heart of a company’s CSR narrative, shaping public perception and cultivating a culture of social responsibility.
Patagonia leads by example in its dedication to environmental activism and sustainability, resonating strongly with its Gen Z employees. The company donates 1% of its sales to grassroots environmental causes through its “1% for the Planet” programme and allows employees to spend up to two months each year on conservation projects while being fully paid. This commitment has not only attracted a younger, socially conscious customer base but also reinforced Patagonia’s impact on both environmental causes and its workforce, showcasing how deeply the company’s values align with those of Gen Z.
Although young people believe companies have a responsibility for supporting climate and disaster causes, this does not diminish their personal motivation to donate. The new survey results show that ultimately this responsibility is shared between governments, companies, and individuals.
Systems change and innovative philanthropic partnerships involving multiple sectors can help to achieve a more stable future. The private sector, with its unique blend of agility, expertise, and resources, is particularly well-positioned to address these challenges effectively, previous GlobalGiving research shows. By committing to innovative solutions and strategic initiatives, businesses can significantly contribute to risk mitigation and community resilience in places vulnerable to disaster risks, ensuring the safety and well-being of future generations.
Whilst there exists various strategies to address climate anxiety, actively engaging in responses can significantly impact your employees. This approach empowers them, helps them feel more in control of their future, and makes a tangible difference in supporting climate and disaster causes.
It’s clear that young people increasingly believe that companies have a responsibility to donate to disaster relief funds. By aligning your company’s mission with the causes that resonate with young employees, you not only engage them more effectively but also create a more socially responsible and trustworthy brand. Supporting CSR and climate change initiatives is more than just a strategy—it’s about shaping a better future for younger generations and creating a pathway to a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Explore the full results of the survey.
Learn more about how GlobalGiving can help enhance your disaster response strategy.
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