As global climate emergency becomes real, academia is engaging with less known impacts of this crisis on vulnerable peoples. ‘Solastalgia’ looks at the emotional impact of climate induced displacement on people who have ‘lost’ their home as they knew it because of the climate crisis. Navjotpal Kaur considers the absence, and need, for this concept in South Asia — a region increasingly impacted by climate emergencies.   

The deep-rooted connection we have with our homes goes beyond the physical; it encompasses the memories, comfort and sense of belonging that we associate with it. Witnessing the deterioration of one’s home and surroundings can be an immensely difficult experience, capable of eliciting a variety of emotional reactions.

The effects of climate change and environmental degradation are becoming increasingly evident. Instances of people losing their homes due to extreme or gradual climate events (floods, wildfires, progressive environmental degradation, etc) are becoming increasingly common.

In instances where external factors beyond our influence have a detrimental effect on our residences and surroundings, it can render us susceptible to heightened emotional vulnerability. This lack of agency can be very distressing: it leaves us feeling powerless, overwhelmed and anxious about the future.

As we witness the alarming consequences of such challenges, a new term has emerged to capture the profound emotional impact they have on individuals — ‘solastalgia’, coined by the philosopher Glenn Albrecht, refers to the distress or melancholy experienced when one’s familiar environment undergoes negative changes. It is a sense of homesickness for a place that exists physically but has been altered in ways that diminish its beauty, vitality, or familiarity — a feeling that resonates deeply with individuals who have a strong attachment to their land, environment and nature.

In the realm of anthropogenic climate change, there are several concepts that have emerged to encapsulate and tackle the anguish brought about by the loss of beloved surroundings. These concepts (‘eco grief’, ‘eco-anxiety’ and ‘sense of place’) shed light on the profound impact of environmental changes on our emotional well-being. ‘Eco grief’, also known as ‘ecological grief’, refers to the deep emotional distress experienced by individuals as a result of environmental degradation, climate change and the loss of biodiversity. It is a complex and multi-faceted phenomenon that encompasses feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, and despair in response to the ecological crises confronting us. ‘Solastalgia’ may be considered a place based sub-concept of ‘eco grief’.

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Numerous studies have emphasised the importance of considering the long-term consequences of climate change-induced losses. As the grieving process for the loss of ecosystems, landscapes, species, and ways of life is expected to occur more frequently worldwide, it is crucial to prioritise understanding and addressing these impacts. In times of extreme, sudden, or gradual disasters, the profound sense of grief or distress that accompanies the loss of place is a universal experience.

However, it is important to recognise that this experience is felt differently across various communities and the impact of such loss can vary greatly depending on cultural background, socio-economic status, geographical location, and demographic factors like gender, caste, age, etc. For some communities, the loss of place may be deeply intertwined with their cultural identity. The destruction of historical landmarks, sacred sites or ancestral homes can be particularly devastating, as it erases a tangible connection to their heritage — the pain felt is not only rooted in physical loss but also in the loss of a shared history and a sense of belonging. On the other hand, communities that have faced repeated disasters may develop a certain resilience in the face of loss. They may have learned to adapt and rebuild, finding strength in their collective spirit. While grief is still present, these communities may approach the process of recovery with a unique perspective, drawing upon their past experiences to navigate the challenges ahead.

When exploring the diverse complexities of South Asia, it becomes crucial to delve into the profound impact that the loss of place and the accompanying grief/distress has on individuals from various backgrounds and social locations. Solastalgia serves as a powerful lens through which we can comprehend the deep-rooted connection between humans and their surroundings. As we experience rapid transformations at both regional and global levels due to climate change, the resulting alterations in landscapes, ecosystems and weather patterns can evoke a sense of profound loss and disorientation for the people who are connected to it. This emotional response is a poignant reminder of the intricate bond we share with our environment.

Despite its undeniable relevance, solastalgia and eco-grief remain neglected within the field of climate change research in the global South, especially in South Asia. While the scientific community has made significant strides in understanding the physical and ecological consequences of climate change, the psychological toll it exacts on individuals is often overlooked. But there is now a growing emphasis on understanding and addressing the concept of eco grief and its profound effects on the mental well-being of individuals. It is also important to note that most of the research and attention surrounding this issue is primarily centred in/on the global North. Their studies not only shed light on the psychological effects of environmental crises but also suggest avenues for incorporating eco grief into existing mental healthcare policies and practices.

While the global North may be at the forefront of studying and discussing eco grief, it is crucial to acknowledge that this issue extends far beyond its borders. The impacts of environmental degradation and climate change are felt worldwide, affecting communities in the global South as well where there is a noticeable paucity in exploring the profound emotional turmoil that accompanies climate change-induced losses, economic or non-economic, in South Asia.

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The absence of studies exploring the emotionality of people with the land is a glaring gap in our understanding of the human–environment relationship in South Asia. In countries where resources are scarce and basic needs remain unmet, it is natural to question the value of studying and addressing mental health issues related to climate change.

These terms may seem unfamiliar or even trivial when compared to the pressing issues that demand immediate attention; however, delving deeper into this topic reveals a profound significance that cannot be overlooked. Climate change, with its far-reaching consequences, poses a significant threat to the mental well-being of individuals and communities. The adverse effects of extreme weather events, displacement and loss of livelihoods can leave lasting psychological scars.

By studying and addressing mental health challenges, we can unlock a range of positive outcomes that extend beyond the realm of mental well-being. First, understanding the mental health implications of climate change allows us to develop targeted interventions and support systems. By identifying the specific needs of individuals and communities, we can provide them with the necessary tools and resources to cope with the psychological toll of environmental crises. This, in turn, fosters resilience and empowers individuals to navigate the challenges they face. Moreover, addressing mental health in the context of climate change can lead to improved overall well-being. When individuals are equipped with the necessary psychological support, they are better able to engage in adaptive behaviours and make informed decisions.

Second, recognising the mental health consequences of climate change is crucial in addressing climate injustice and inequality; studying the intersection of mental health and climate change can provide valuable insights and potential solutions for communities that are already disadvantaged. Those at the margins who are already grappling with limited access to healthcare and resources are often the most susceptible to the psychological distress caused by climate-related catastrophes.  Moving forward, ignoring eco grief from climate change studies will only exacerbate the suffering of those who bear the brunt of extreme weather events, food and water scarcity, and displacement from their homes.

Third, studying solastalgia and eco grief has the potential to cultivate a profound sense of human empathy and forge stronger emotional connections to the environment. The relentless pursuit of extractivism and profitivism has taken its toll, leaving us disconnected from the natural world that once provided us with everything we needed. Extractivism, the practice of extracting resources from the earth without considering the long-term consequences, has become a dominant force in our society. It has fueled our insatiable desire for more, leading to the depletion of natural resources and the degradation of our environment. Profitivism, on the other hand, prioritises financial gain above all else, often at the expense of our planet and its inhabitants.

But amidst this disconnect, there is a growing realisation that we must re-establish our bond with the land. In delving into the realms of solastalgia and eco grief in the global South, we embark on a journey to validate and articulate the emotions that individuals experience but may struggle to express. In today’s digital age, where language is constantly evolving and new words are being coined, it is crucial for us to stay up-to-date and ensure that our dictionaries reflect the ever-changing lexicon.

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The most recent COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh has undoubtedly made history by creating a groundbreaking Loss and Damage Fund designed to support developing countries impacted by climate change, including in South Asia. But it was disheartening to note that mental health issues were once again overlooked at this global event. It is worth mentioning that the Sendai Framework remains the only international agreement that recognises the importance of mental health in the context of climate change. This framework, which focuses on disaster risk reduction, acknowledges the profound psychological toll that climate-related events can have on individuals and communities.

While the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund is undoubtedly a major achievement, it is crucial that mental health is not neglected in future climate discussions. The intersection of mental health and climate change is a pressing issue that must be addressed comprehensively and inclusively. Mental health impacts resulting from climate change are far-reaching and can have long-lasting effects on individuals and communities. By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, we can hope that the response to climate change is holistic and considers the well-being of all those affected.

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Author’s Acknowledgements: This post is based on research conducted for a project which has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Grant Agreement No. 847639.

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Banner image © Mostafa World, 2022, Unsplash.

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