We're thrilled to have Dr Beth Hill from Psychology for a Safe Climate joining us to facilitate this session. We hope it provides some space and strategies for self-care, reflection and personal growth. We're keenly aware that environmental educators tend to be deep thinkers with huge hearts sharing empathy for every living and non-living entity around us, and maybe sometimes we need a little support to turn that empathy inwards? How do we help ourselves to cultivate the habits, values and mindset that we aspire to?

About the session:

An introduction to the area of climate psychology and the reality of climate distress (how it shows up in life and at work)
A chance to connect with colleagues in smaller breakout rooms for discussion
An emphasis on participation and personal reflection

About Dr Beth Hill:

Beth has a PhD in Anthropology researching the cultural and psychological dimensions of climate change, in particular how communities come to terms with what climate change means in their daily lives. Beth trained with Joanna Macy in the Work that Reconnects. She facilitates workshops drawing on this approach, as well deep ecology, mindfulness and creative processes involving art and writing.

---

Background

Since declaring a Climate Emergency in 2019, AAEE NSW has been shifting focus to the biggest environmental education issue defining our future - climate change. Last year we adopted a Climate Emergency Response Plan to support environmental educators, professionals, volunteers and activists create change in their communities. Communicating about climate change is the most important thing we can do and because AAEE NSW has been communicating and engaging with communities about our environment since 1976, we are here to support you to do this critical work. See our Climate Crisis Resource Hub for details on our response, including the below resource, Ten Communication Tips to Change the Climate Story.