Climate Scientists Risk Jobs and Freedom to Save the Planet
In a world increasingly aware of climate change, some scientists are taking extraordinary measures to drive home the urgency of the crisis. Peter Kalmus, a climate scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, epitomizes this shift towards direct action. On April 6, 2022, he joined three fellow scientists to handcuff themselves to a JPMorgan Chase bank door in Los Angeles, protesting the bank’s role in financing fossil fuels.
Kalmus’s fear of losing his job was palpable. “I was scared as hell,” he recalls. Yet, his conviction pushed him forward. He joined over 1,000 activists in nearly 30 countries under the banner “1.5C is dead, climate revolution now!” This global movement, led by Scientist Rebellion, aims to spotlight the dire state of our climate through disruptive but nonviolent actions.
For Kalmus, this was a last resort after decades of attempting to raise awareness through conventional means. His concerns about being fired and facing legal repercussions were not unfounded. After being arrested and spending eight hours in jail, he was charged with misdemeanour trespassing. The charges were later dropped, but the incident led to a prolonged investigation by NASA’s ethics and human resources departments. Despite the stress and health issues it caused, Kalmus’s commitment remains unshaken. “Climate activists are clearly on the right side of history,” he asserts.
Rose Abramoff, another scientist, faced even harsher consequences. After unfurling a protest banner at a scientific conference, she was fired from Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Abramoff's journey into activism was spurred by witnessing environmental destruction firsthand. Joining protests and facing arrests became part of her new normal, driven by the alarming data on climate change impacts.
Eco-anxiety, a term defined by the American Psychological Association as “a chronic fear of environmental doom,” is a common thread among these activists. It manifests in various ways, from increased mental health issues to a profound sense of urgency. To cope, scientists like Kalmus turn to practices like vipassana meditation and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These methods help them manage their emotions and continue their activism.
Kalmus and Abramoff represent a growing number of scientists who believe that the severity of the climate crisis warrants radical action. Despite personal and professional risks, their dedication to the cause is unwavering. They embody the belief that it’s never too late to make a difference, emphasizing that every action counts in the fight against climate change.
Peter Kalmus, a climate scientist at NASA, chained himself to a JPMorgan Chase bank door to protest climate inaction. His fear of losing his job didn't deter him as he joined over 1,000 activists worldwide. Scientist Rebellion, the group behind this, advocates for nonviolent disruption to highlight the climate crisis. Kalmus faced potential job loss and legal issues, but his arrest and subsequent investigation by NASA only strengthened his resolve.
Rose Abramoff, another scientist, lost her job after a protest but continues her activism undeterred. Both Kalmus and Abramoff highlight the emotional toll and professional risks scientists face in advocating for urgent climate action. Despite their fears and setbacks, their commitment is driven by a sense of moral duty and love for the planet.
Eco-anxiety, defined as chronic fear of environmental doom, affects many, including these scientists. They use various coping mechanisms like meditation and activism to manage their stress. Their actions are rooted in a profound sense of urgency and responsibility towards future generations.
FAQs
1. Why did Peter Kalmus and other scientists engage in civil disobedience? They wanted to raise awareness about the urgent climate crisis and felt traditional methods were ineffective.
2. What is Scientist Rebellion? It’s a group of scientists and academics committed to nonviolent actions to draw attention to the climate emergency.
3. What risks do scientists face when they protest? They risk job loss, legal consequences, and professional reputations.
4. What is eco-anxiety? It’s a chronic fear of environmental doom, affecting mental health due to climate change concerns.
5. How do activists cope with the stress of climate change? They use methods like meditation, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and community support groups.
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