In the 2021 Climate issue, The BMJ published an opinion piece 42 by Mala Rao and Richard Powell, highlighting the increasing levels of eco-
Fostering positivity and activism through the climate issues themes Ahead of COP26, 37 The BMJ published its first themed issue on the climate crisis, 38 which focused on tangible actions for health professionals to empower them to make change. The second climate issue in October 2022 focused on hope 39 , arguing that hope is “a powerful driver to achieve change” 40 in the face of government and corporate inaction to mitigate the climate crisis. Through ongoing coverage of the climate emergency The BMJ proactively empowers practising doctors to recognise the urgency and severity of the climate crisis, fostering a sense of collective responsibility including discussing the topic with patients. 41
anxiety, especially among children and young people, and its potential negative impact on individuals and society. The publication raised awareness and prompted action on the issue of eco-anxiety. It gained national media attention and was featured in The Guardian . 43 Following the publications of the opinion piece, Professor Mala Rao OBE, one of the authors of the piece and a member of The BMJ’s climate steering committee, was invited to lead a special issue on eco-anxiety for the Royal College of Psychiatrists. 44
The [Climate Issue] is so fantastic, and everyone ignored the first hour of work to read through it cover to cover. There’s such a diversity of thoughts, all positive and pulling in the right direction.” Nick Watts Chief Sustainability Officer of the NHS
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