During NYC Climate Week 2024, the Development, Ecopsychology, & Wellness (DEW) Lab and the Center for Sustainable Futures joined forces to engage the Teachers College community in meaningful discussions about the psychological impacts of climate change. From Monday, September 23, to Friday, September 27, the groups hosted a table outside Everett Lounge, offering a unique opportunity for storytelling, reflection, and learning.

Each day from noon to 2 PM, visitors were invited to share their "nature stories"—personal accounts of how climate events have shaped their lives and impacted their well-being. These stories not only underscored the profound connection between humans and the natural world, but also revealed how climate disruptions shape and impact our emotional landscapes. Some spoke of witnessing dramatic environmental changes, while others shared their feelings of anxiety in response to extreme weather events and ecological degradation.

The DEW Lab distributed seed packets as a symbol of hope and renewal, encouraging participants to nurture both ecological and emotional resilience. The conversations expanded into discussions about the toll these climate experiences take on mental health, emphasizing the urgent need to address the psychological impacts of climate change.  The Center for Sustainable Futures provided materials that underscored the importance of integrating climate change education across school subjects and the growing public support behind this effort. This collaboration emphasized the growing recognition that addressing climate change is not just about protecting ecosystems, but also about safeguarding mental well-being in the face of environmental uncertainty.