Positivity and collective climate action

Abstract

Climate change and environmental degradation are amongst the most pressing issues facing humankind of our time. Concerted collective action is needed to tackle them. This includes a range of domains and behaviours from the support of pro-environmental policies to climate activism. Much research has highlighted the important role that a positive approach to climate messaging and communication can have on individual behaviour. Taking this promising line of research forward, this review examines the role of positivity in collective climate action. I first delineate the terms collective action and positivity as used in this review. I then summarise recent empirical findings at the intersection of positivity and collective climate action, organised by the type of positivity-related concept investigated. These are, in particular, hope, efficacy, and positive future visions. Finally, I offer suggestions for future research to stimulate further investigation into the promising role of positivity for collective climate action in the years ahead.