The term „climate quitting“ has become increasingly important in recent years and describes a phenomenon in which individuals or even entire communities react with resignation to climate change. They either quit their jobs or show their withdrawal in other ways. Resignation also manifests itself in a withdrawal from environmentally conscious efforts and a feeling of helplessness in the face of global challenges. This behaviour is characterized by a kind of giving up, be it through passivity, denial or a turning away from personal engagement of any kind.
The significance of „climate quitting“ extends beyond individual actions and can also influence political and societal decision-making processes. In this article, the reader is offered a deeper insight into the characteristics and implications of this phenomenon in order to develop a better understanding of the dynamics of dealing with climate change.
Definition of the term „climate quitting“
The term „climate quitting“ comes from the English language and is made up of the two words „climate“ and „quitting“. Combined, „climate quitting“ could therefore be roughly translated as „quitting due to climate“ or „giving up due to climate“.
This refers to a certain helplessness that is expressed due to the threat of a (potentially unavoidable) climate catastrophe. The word „quitting“ here describes a fundamental rejection of activities or duties (namely one’s own job) that were previously taken for granted. Climate quitting can therefore be described as a serious situation for society.
„Climate quitting is often intrinsic, i.e. it is not demanded by organizations or communities. The individuals in question therefore decide to take this step of their own accord, thereby causing great harm to society.
Word origin and meaning of „climate quitting“
Climate quitting is still a relatively new trend that is particularly widespread among Generation Z employees. The trend can be dated back to the beginning of 2023, when more and more young employees decided to quit their jobs for climate reasons. On the one hand, these employees no longer wanted to be part of a system that deliberately destroys the environment, and on the other, they wanted to use their newly gained freedom and time to do more to protect the environment.
Climate quitting therefore quickly became a trend, especially among young people, who attribute their resignation primarily to man-made climate change. The group in question is now trying to find a way out of this with the time they have gained, initially by protesting and creating awareness.
Legal situation surrounding „climate quitting“
The legal situation surrounding climate quitting varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances. In principle, however, there are no direct laws that regulate the phenomenon as such. However, actions related to climate quitting may fall under existing environmental or climate protection laws.
In addition, governments or organizations could take legal action to address climate change, for example by enacting legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or implementing measures to adapt to climate change. However, it is important to note that climate quitting is more of a social and psychological phenomenon that is not directly addressed by the legal system.
Use of climate quitting in different contexts
After the term „climate quitting“ became popular in early 2023, it initially spread in the following contexts
- Job & Career
- social media
- Everyday life
The following subsections will therefore be used to categorize the term „climate quitting“ in the above contexts.
Job & career
When it comes to jobs and careers, there is a noticeable trend towards climate quitting. More and more employees, especially from the younger Generation Z, are deciding to quit their jobs or look for more environmentally friendly employment opportunities out of climate awareness. This trend has not only individual but also structural effects on companies and industries, as employees increasingly prefer companies that are actively committed to environmental protection and sustainability.
Social media
Climate quitting has become a significant trend on social media. Influencers and activists in particular are using platforms such as Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to talk about their experiences with climate quitting and encourage others to get involved in environmental protection. Hashtags such as #ClimateQuitting and #EcoResignation are used to categorize and disseminate posts on this topic.
Everyday life
In everyday life, „climate quitting“ manifests itself in various behaviors and decisions. Some people change their consumption habits, for example by avoiding environmentally harmful products or shopping more consciously. Others become more involved in local environmental protection projects or campaign politically for climate protection measures. „Climate quitting therefore influences the daily lives of many people who want to actively work towards a more sustainable future.
Social classification of climate quitting
Climate quitting is a phenomenon that can be observed primarily among members of Generation Z and Alpha (younger than 25). These target groups have been observed to quit their apprenticeships or jobs for climate reasons. Older target groups often understand the concept behind „climate quitting“, but neither approve of it nor implement it themselves.
A critical view of climate quitting
A critical examination of climate quitting suggests that while it is a form of individual protest, it may not be the most effective strategy for tackling climate change. By quitting individuals could potentially compromise their ability to effect positive change within existing structures.
Furthermore, an increased effort to bring about change within existing institutions could potentially be more effective than complete disengagement. It is therefore important to carefully evaluate the long-term impact and effectiveness of climate quitting.
Conclusion on climate quitting and similar terms
In summary, „climate quitting“ can be understood as a form of protest in which (mainly young) employees or trainees quit their jobs in order to become more involved in environmental protection. Currently, this mainly affects industries that contribute heavily to environmental pollution. „Climate quitting is a personal decision and does not violate any legal provisions (provided that the contractual obligations to terminate the employment contract are complied with).
In addition to „climate quitting“, there are also the terms „eco-resignation“ and „environmental burnout“. Eco-resignation also describes a resignation or giving up in relation to environmental problems, particularly climate change. Environmental burnout, on the other hand, refers to a phenomenon in which people are exhausted due to overwork or frustration in connection with environmental problems and the fight for environmental protection.