RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy: Sustainable Action for Climate Adaptation

Climate anxiety stems from fear of environmental catastrophe and a sense of powerlessness, but empowerment through meaningful action may help mitigate distress. Horticultural therapy offers a practical solution by fostering a connection to nature, promoting sustainable actions, and supporting both mental well-being and ecological resilience.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Children/Youth, General Population

Setting or Context: Community Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Greater Sense of Purpose, Improved Stress Management, Increased Horticultural Knowledge

Allied Profession Intersections: Counselling, Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy

Type of Activity: Plant Propagation, Growing Plants from Seed, Environmental Education

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Case Studies, Observational Research, Randomized Controlled Trials

Research Source: Non-Profit Organizations

Access: Free

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Summary

An international survey found that over 45% of young adults experience climate anxiety severe enough to interfere with daily life. In response, educators, healthcare providers, and environmentalists have increasingly collaborated to address this growing concern. Climate anxiety stems from the fear of catastrophic environmental changes, compounded by the feeling of powerlessness to prevent them. However, research suggests that engaging in meaningful actions can empower individuals and reduce anxiety—similar to how mask-wearing and social distancing provided a sense of control during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Horticultural therapy (HT) offers a tangible way to cope with climate anxiety by fostering a connection to nature and encouraging sustainable action. Acknowledging climate-related grief as a natural response allows individuals to take purposeful steps, such as reducing waste, reusing materials, and participating in local environmental efforts. These small, daily actions help restore a sense of control and hope. As a climate adaptation strategy, HT supports both mental health and ecological resilience. Gardening, planting native species, and engaging in community-based wellness programs provide accessible and affordable ways to reduce anxiety while promoting environmental stewardship. Integrating HT into broader climate adaptation efforts can offer both psychological relief and ecological restoration, making it a powerful tool for navigating a changing world.

Link

Griffin, C. (2024, February 19). Horticultural therapy: Sustainable action for climate adaptation – horticultural therapy institute. Horticultural Therapy Institute.

https://www.htinstitute.org/blog/horticultural-therapy-sustainable-action-for-climate-adaptation/#:~:text=Horticultural%20Therapy%20as%20a%20Climate%20Adaptation%20Plan&text=In%20context%20of%20a%20climate,access%20to%20mental%20health%20services

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