Climate and environmental issues: the Specchio study explores the subject
Climate and environmental issues in Geneva: perceptions and links with mental health, Nature npj Climate Action, 2026
In Geneva, more than three out of four people say they are alarmed or concerned about climate change. Eco-anxiety is more common among women, people with higher education qualifications and in certain areas of the city centre, and is associated with more anxiety and depressive symptoms. These results call for a better link between climate issues and mental health.
The Population Epidemiology Unit of the HUG Primary Care Medicine Department has published a study on climate and environmental issues in Geneva in the journal Nature npj Climate Action. Conducted as part of the Specchio* cohort, this research is based on the responses of 3,136 participants.
Three out of four people concerned about the climate
The results show that 76% of participants are classified as 'alarmed' or 'concerned' about climate change. This proportion is higher than that observed in several recent national surveys, including those in the United States and Australia.
The results show that eco-anxiety was more pronounced among women, people with higher education, and in certain areas of central Geneva. Eco-anxiety is also associated with mental health symptoms.
A geography of eco-anxiety
The study also uses spatial epidemiology tools, a field of expertise of the GIRAPH(Geographic Information Research and Analysis in Population Health) group, to map the areas most affected by eco-anxiety. Nearly 12% of participants live in these areas, mainly in the urban centre of Geneva. Conversely, outlying areas are more likely to have lower values for both dimensions. These areas partly overlap with those where the proportion of people with higher education qualifications is higher, suggesting a role for socio-demographic composition.
Eco-anxiety and mental health
The study found direct correlations between eco-anxiety and mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety) using validated scales.
Towards integrated interventions
These results underline the importance of targeted approaches to climate and environmental issues in relation to population health, including local action in areas identified as hot spots. For healthcare professionals, they serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing climate-related concerns, particularly among people at greater risk of eco-anxiety.
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You too can take part in Specchio!
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Are you aged between 18 and 35 and live in the canton of Geneva? Your participation counts for health research in Geneva!
Commissioned by theCantonal Health Office and conducted by thePopulation Epidemiology Unit of the HUG's Primary Care Medicine Department, the Specchio study is tracking changes in the health of Geneva's population through regular online questionnaires that can be accessed from home, at your own pace.
By taking part, you are contributing directly to a better understanding of health issues in Geneva, including subjects of particular concern to young people, such as eco-anxiety. Any adult living or working in the canton can join the cohort.
Further information and registration: specchio-hub.ch
* Funded by the Office cantonal de la santé and conducted by the Unité d'épidémiologie populationnelle (Population Epidemiology Unit) of the HUG's Service de médecine de premier recours (Primary Care Medicine Service), the Specchio study is tracking changes in the health of Genevans through regular online questionnaires. Any adult living or working in the canton of Geneva can take part in the Specchio study and contribute to a better understanding of health in Geneva.
