Climate change and plastic pollution are top worries for young girls, Girl Talk survey finds

When asked about their biggest worries for the planet, over one-third (34%) mentioned climate change or global warming, expressing fears about rising temperatures, extreme weather, and melting ice caps.

One young reader shared: "The icebergs are melting, and we could all die," while another worried: "Global warming will demolish the icebergs and come for us next."

These findings align with a recent Greenpeace UK survey, which found that 78% of primary school children are worried about climate change, with more than a quarter (27%) saying they are very worried.

Plastic pollution and endangered animals weigh heavily on young minds

Concerns about plastic pollution, particularly in the ocean, were raised by 19% of respondents.

Many girls expressed sadness about sea creatures being harmed by plastic waste, with one explaining: "Dolphins are choking on plastic," and another adding: "People throw rubbish in the sea, and animals eat it and die."

Animal extinction was another major worry, with 17% of respondents fearing for endangered species.

Polar bears, turtles, and marine life were frequently mentioned, with one child saying: "All the animals might die out," and another sharing their distress over "animals losing their homes because of climate change."

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Rising eco-anxiety: How teachers and parents are struggling to help

Girl Talk's survey highlights how deeply young girls care about the environment, but with this awareness comes a growing sense of eco-anxiety.

Greenpeace UK’s research suggests that many teachers are struggling to address these worries, with 70% of primary teachers saying they don’t have enough time in the school day to help students process their concerns about climate change.

Meanwhile, 82% of teachers say they would find lesson plans and resources useful in supporting children through these fears.

In response, Greenpeace has released new guides for parents and teachers to help children navigate climate concerns without feeling overwhelmed.

Caroline Hickman, a psychotherapist and expert on eco-anxiety, warns that ignoring children’s fears won’t make them go away:

Our children will come of age during a climate crisis, so building their emotional resilience is one way to prepare them. Parents want their children to have a worry-free childhood, but when it comes to climate change, avoiding the conversation only puts them at a disadvantage.

A generation determined to make a difference

Despite their worries, Girl Talk readers are not just anxious about the future – they’re actively taking steps to help.

The survey found that 95% of girls take part in activities that help the environment, whether that’s using reusable water bottles, recycling, or donating old clothes.

This growing awareness reflects a shift in how young people engage with the world. Just as previous generations of Girl Talk readers were inspired by pop stars and TV shows, today’s girls are increasingly motivated by social and environmental issues, showing a desire to protect their planet and its wildlife.

As Girl Talk Editor Claire Norman says:

The last 30 years have seen huge changes, but what has stayed the same is Girl Talk readers’ passion for learning about themselves and the world around them.

With climate change and sustainability at the forefront of young girls’ concerns, this generation is proving that caring for the planet is more than just a passing trend – it’s a cause they’re ready to fight for.

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