An Exploration of Youth Attitudes on Climate Change in Alaska and Northern Canada

Abstract

In this paper, we present the results of a 2023 survey, administered to youth (N=519) between the ages of 16 and 24 in Alaska (N=266) and northern Canada (N=253), that assessed young people’s attitudes on climate change and their sense of personal agency to enact positive change. This survey reveals several key aspects of Arctic youths’ beliefs and provides a baseline to inform future research. We found higher levels of concern among Arctic youth compared to young people in studies conducted in other non-Arctic regions. Several significant demographic differences were noted, particularly differences between genders by country of residence. Our findings demonstrate that Arctic youth hold nuanced views on climate change, recognizing both its potential economic benefits and environmental risks.