Climate change is inherently intergenerational problemParents are in a unique position in this regard because their decisions and actions today can significantly influence future generations. A recent study that examined the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of of parents in the UK (focusing on parents of children under 15), assessed their "carbon capability".

Carbon capability is defined as "the ability to make informed judgments and take effective decisions regarding carbon use and management, both through individual behavioral change and collective action"The concept of carbon fitness differs from the narrower “carbon literacy” in that it emphasizes not only individual knowledge but also engagement in broader systems and governance structures.

Parenting challenges and environmental impact

The study, which used data from a nationally representative survey (n = 1001), in-depth interviews (n = 30), and focus groups (n = 7), found that parenthood is associated with increased energy consumption, transport use and plastic wasteThese findings challenge the idea of the “green parenthood effect,” which assumes that parenting leads to more environmentally friendly behavior.

In the field of transport 21 out of 30 respondents reported using their car more often after having children, citing convenience and accessibility. For many, driving is “much easier” than travelling on public transport with children, particularly due to barriers such as making it harder to transport strollers on trains.

In the area of consumption Parenthood was associated with an increase in disposable items such as diapers and wipes, with parents feeling guilty about this plastic waste. Despite parents reporting guilt, they mostly used disposable diapers because of their “convenience” and “ease of use.”

In domestic energy consumption There was no statistically significant difference in the overall effort of households to reduce their gas and electricity consumption. However, parents of young children were significantly more likely to setting the thermostat for children, which many respondents attributed to the pressure to maintain an “optimal temperature” for babies.

In catering showed no significant differences in the frequency of red meat consumption. However, parents expressed that dietary changes were made difficult by priorities such as children's nutrition and their preferences.

Impact and solution potential

Despite the challenges, parents demonstrated high capacity to influence and be influenced by othersParents were aware of their environmental impacts and were open to adopting pro-environmental behaviors, motivated by a desire to protect and prepare their children.

Although parents in the survey did not report a high level of knowledge about more complex climate topics, they demonstrated the potential for two-way, intergenerational influence (parent–child influence). Children can be catalysts for change in the family, as evidenced by anecdotes of children admonishing their parents to save energy. However, a barrier to open discussion about climate with children is often fear of scaring them.

In terms of political response, parents preferred timely provision of information, which is timed to key “Moments of Change” (MoC) in family life (such as childbirth). An example is providing information about reusable diapers in a prenatal class when habits are still being formed.

In addition to information, parents recognize the need more substantial, structural interventions to promote sustainable living. Proposed solutions included better accessibility of public transport for families (e.g. “buggy-friendly” stations) and policies targeting high-carbon consumption, such as higher prices on plastic toys to encourage second-hand purchases.

In conclusion, study highlights the key role of parents in climate action. While current parental behaviour in the UK is not fully aligned with climate targets, they have a unique ability to influence the next generation. Governments must target parents of children under 15 with the right mix of guidance, incentives and structural reforms to increase their carbon resilience and raise a new generation of climate-conscious citizens. JRi

Study published in Population & Environment magazine