In mid-November, I joined leaders of the world’s psychological associations to launch a critical initiative combating climate change. Given that the climate crisis is largely caused by human behavior, we as psychologists are well positioned to apply our science to help prevent climate change and mitigate its adverse impacts.
At the first International Summit on Psychology and Global Health, in Lisbon, Portugal, Nov. 14–16, co-hosted by APA and the Order of Portuguese Psychologists, the president of Portugal and representatives of 43 psychological associations from five continents gathered to discuss this global challenge, which demands a global response. Together, we signed a proclamation laying out our intent to, among other aims:
- Inform our members and the public about the climate crisis.
- Encourage our members and other mental health leaders to be vocal advocates in this area.
- Increase the availability of services and interventions, especially for vulnerable populations.
- Encourage governmental, educational, health and corporate leaders to draw upon psychological science in developing climate policy.
As you can see in this issue of the Monitor, our third annual Trends Report, psychologists are already contributing to this work (see Increasing action on climate change). They are writing and reviewing material for the upcoming sixth assessment of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which will influence climate policy worldwide. Psychologists are also working directly with national and local governments and corporate leaders to apply behavioral science to climate communication and policy efforts by, for example, crafting more effective messaging campaigns to promote energy efficient and sustainable behaviors. With more contributions like these, we can help address this complex, seemingly intractable issue. The summit provides a launching pad for psychological associations around the world to work together on climate change, building on and amplifying our previous efforts.
I hope our coverage of psychologists’ roles in climate change and other important issues in this Trends Report inspires your work. Our discipline is critical for addressing many of the societal problems facing our nation and our world.
