Riding the wave of eco-anxiety: How WATERFRONTS is building resilience in coastal communities

The term "eco-anxiety" might be relatively new, but the feeling it describes is becoming increasingly common. It's the persistent worry about the future of our planet, a sense of dread in the face of climate change and its consequences. For those living in waterfront communities, this anxiety is not an abstract concept—it's a daily reality.

The WATERFRONTS project, officially named "Waterfront Culture For Resilience Against Climate Change & Eco-Anxiety," directly confronts this challenge. The project recognizes that the mental health impacts of climate change are as significant as the physical ones. It aims to empower communities, especially vulnerable and marginalized groups, to transform their eco-anxiety into positive, proactive change.

Art as a tool for transformation

At the heart of WATERFRONTS is the belief in the transformative power of the arts. The project will bring together young artists, marine scientists, mental health experts, and local communities in Gothenburg (Sweden), Lesvos (Greece), and Zadar (Croatia). Through a series of workshops, residencies, and community-based interventions, participants will co-create artworks that explore their experiences with climate change and eco-anxiety.

These artistic creations will not just be for display. They will serve as a powerful tool for:

• Self-expression and storytelling: Providing a platform for individuals to articulate their fears and hopes, turning feelings of helplessness into narratives of resilience.

• Community dialogue: Fostering conversations and building a sense of shared understanding and collective purpose.

• Public awareness: Highlighting the realities of climate change in waterfront communities and advocating for sustainable solutions.

A holistic approach to well-being

WATERFRONTS takes a holistic approach, understanding that environmental well-being and human well-being are deeply intertwined. The project integrates:

• Socially-engaged arts: To foster community cohesion and creative expression.

• Marine sciences: To provide a scientific understanding of the challenges and potential solutions.

• Mental healthcare: To offer support and coping strategies for eco-anxiety.

By weaving these three strands together, WATERFRONTS aims to create a comprehensive and empathetic response to the challenges faced by waterfront communities. The project will not only address the symptoms of eco-anxiety but also empower communities to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Join the conversation

Over the next two years, WATERFRONTS will be rolling out a series of events, workshops, and an online awareness campaign that will reach millions of citizens across nine European countries. We invite you to follow our journey and join the conversation.