Viewing the Climate Crisis from Intergenerational Perspectives

The climate crisis is an existential threat to all living creatures. The Great Acceleration in human population starting in the middle of the last century marks the beginning of a new geological epoch-the so-called Anthropocene-defined by the global impact of humans, especially the Baby Boom generation. Addressing these challenges will require long-term thinking and a commitment to future generations of humans and other living creatures. This chapter blends stories and data about effective intergenerational programs in which the authors have participated to share current best practices and design elements essential for future efforts to connect the generations in the climate conversation. The steps in this process led to the challenging of assumptions, building of relationships, and a deepening appreciation for connections with nature. These lessons focused on the importance of process in creating open, honest, and fruitful intergenerational conversations that can lead to community and cultural transformation.