Introduction

The report explores the rapid rise in youth-led climate activism since 2018, largely inspired by figures like Greta Thunberg. This activism has contributed significantly to global climate change discussions. The review highlights the central role young people have played in advocating for urgent action through mass movements such as Fridays For Future.

Methods for conducting literature review

A broad review of 51 peer-reviewed papers was undertaken to gather insights into how researchers have approached the study of youth climate activism. The selected papers focused primarily on research post-2018 and were chosen for their empirical data on youth engagement. The review identified both qualitative and quantitative research, focusing on themes such as motivations for activism, demographic composition, and outcomes.

Methods for studying young people’s climate activism

The report identifies various methodologies used in studying youth climate activism, including surveys, ethnographic studies, and digital ethnography. Notably, studies frequently relied on surveys conducted at Fridays For Future protests, while others employed social media analysis to understand how young activists build communities online. However, much of this research was adult-led, raising questions about adultism in research practices and the need for youth-centered approaches.

Key themes in the literature

The composition of youth climate activism is diverse, though skewed towards participants from well-educated, White, and middle-class backgrounds. Surveys conducted in Europe and the United States found that 70% of participants came from families where at least one parent had a university degree. The median age of protesters was 21, with participants more likely to be female. Research also explores the motivations behind youth climate activism. Many young people cite governmental inaction as a driving force, particularly in the United Kingdom. Concerns about the environment, social justice, and future generations are also central motivators.

The outcomes of activism for young people are primarily positive. Research shows that involvement in movements like Fridays For Future fosters a sense of empowerment, political engagement, and community. Participants also reported increased environmental awareness and optimism about their ability to drive change. The review indicates that activism leads to the development of social capital and networks, which may sustain future engagement.

Discussion

Despite the prominence of figures like Greta Thunberg, the review suggests the need to move beyond a hyperfocus on individual activists. The literature overemphasises mass mobilisations, while downplaying other forms of activism such as localised campaigns and everyday acts of resistance. There is also an evident gap in research concerning activism in the Global South, with most studies focusing on wealthy, White communities in the Global North. This has contributed to an incomplete understanding of youth climate activism.

Conclusion

The report calls for future research to address these gaps by focusing on more diverse youth experiences, including those from marginalised communities. Recommendations include adopting youth-led research methodologies and developing frameworks that account for the intersectionality of young activists’ identities. Expanding research to include the Global South is crucial for capturing the full scope of youth climate activism.