The unrelenting bad news about the trajectory of the Earth’s climate has engendered plenty of pessimism. But there is another way to react to the sobering scientific consensus. Rather than give up and abandon any responsibility for climate woes, a growing number of people — especially young people —are acknowledging the gravity of the crisis while fully embracing their ability to improve their future. It is an empowering attitude that helps ward off climate doom anxiety.

In an unprecedented step, the Fourth National Climate Assessment incorporates the expertise and perspectives of Indigenous experts in climate and environmental science, environmental justice, and other disciplines.