Climate change survivalism is a growing movement of people around the world focused on preparing for and adapting to climate change. You’ve seen it yourself. Historic flood levels wiping out communities. Raging bushfires and howling wildfires consuming swathes of bush and urban land, most recently in Hawaii. Compounding natural disasters one after another. Each more ferocious than the one before. People are starting to think: what if this is the future? And many are embracing the idea of becoming climate change survivalists. Not climate change preppers exactly, so what is a climate change survivalist? And is it your future too?
What is a climate change survivalist?
At its core, climate change survivalism is about being proactive in the face of climate change. It’s taking steps to ensure your own survival and the survival of your family in the face of environmental disasters and an uncertain climate. Whether it’s extreme weather events, the depletion of natural resources, or expanding disease vectors, climate survivalists aim to be prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.
Climate change survivalism goes beyond simply stockpiling food supplies and building bunkers. It’s more than a bunch of climate change preppers holing out in the desert with guns and gold.
Instead, it’s a mindset of self-sufficiency and resilience.
Climate change survivalists are people that want to learn skills such as growing and gathering food. How to provide basic medical care. How to store and filter water. What renewable energy sources to invest in.
They’re doing this for 2 main reasons:
- to reduce their reliance on systems and supplies chains in case these fail, and
- to minimize their own impact on the environment. Because as they say ‘act local, think global’.
Climate change survivalists are not hermits. On the contrary. Climate change survivalism emphasizes community building and cooperation.
Survivalists have read the climate forecasts. They’ve looked at the climate models. So they appreciate the importance of working together to overcome what may lie ahead. They form networks and share knowledge, resources, and strategies to increase their chances of survival in a changing world.
Any yes, this very website is part of those networks.
The Rise of Climate Change Survivalism
Where did climate change survivalism come from?
The increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and floods have made it clear that our world is changing. These events have caused widespread devastation, displacing communities and leaving people without access to basic necessities.
Furthermore, the slow progress in addressing climate change at a global level has left many feeling uncertain about the future. Despite scientific consensus on the urgency of the issue, political and economic barriers have hindered significant action. This lack of action has fueled a sense of frustration and disillusionment, leading individuals to take matters into their own hands.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities of our current systems, leading people to question their ability to withstand future crises. The pandemic exposed the fragility of global supply chains, healthcare systems, and social structures. This realization has prompted individuals to seek alternative ways of living that prioritize resilience and adaptability.
These factors have contributed to a growing interest in climate change survivalism as a means of taking control of one’s own destiny. People are no longer content with relying solely on governments and institutions to protect them. They are actively seeking ways to become more self-reliant and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
It is important to note that climate change survivalism is not solely driven by fear or pessimism. While acknowledging the severity of the climate crisis, survivalists also embrace a sense of hope and determination. They believe that by taking action and preparing for the future, they can create a more resilient and sustainable world for themselves and future generations.
The mindset of a climate change survivalist
The mindset of a climate change survivalist goes beyond simply acknowledging that the world is changing. It is a deep understanding that we cannot rely solely on existing systems and governments to protect us in natural disasters.
But why is this? Well, here are a few examples:
Natural disaster intensity and scale:
Global warming is amping up the strength and size of natural disasters. And these weather events are starting to compound. They’re fast become bigger than our resources dedicated to handling them. Emergency rescue resources. Government assistance. Are all stretched with the scale of floods, fires, storms and other big weather events we’re now seeing.
Natural disaster community impacts:
As they intensify, natural disaster are knocking out the very systems we rely on to live comfortably and safely. Here’s what I mean:
- Power Supply: Most of our power supply comes from large power plants and is delivered to us over long power lines. This infrastructure, like transformers and transmission lines are not built to withstand extreme weather conditions. Blackouts are a signature of big weather events.
- Water Supply: Climate warming changes in rainfall patterns and increases evaporation rates, causing some areas to see more rainfall, while others see droughts. The imbalance affects the availability of freshwater in different regions. Melting glaciers, which are a significant source of freshwater, also contribute to the problem. Water shortages are starting to bite in places previously unaffected.
- Communications: Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires can damage the infrastructure needed for communication, like cell towers, satellite dishes, and fiber optic cables. This can lead to communication blackouts in affected areas. No internet means no money and how do you buy things like fuel without tap and pay?
- Food supply: Climate change affects agriculture and fisheries – primary sources of trade for many countries. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns reduce crop yields and affect the habitats of fish. Also, extreme weather events disrupt transportation routes by sea, land, and air, affecting the global supply chain. We’ve all recoiled in horror at empty supermarket during flood events.
Climate change survivalists believe in taking personal responsibility for their well-being by acquiring the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to weather any storm.
They understand that preparedness is not driven by fear but rather by a sense of empowerment, self-sufficiency, and self reliance. And a desire not to be a burden to the community. But instead, to be in a position to help.
The thinking is, by embracing a survivalist mentality, individuals can navigate through uncertain times with confidence and peace of mind.
Climate change survivalists are not pessimists who see doom and gloom around every corner. On the contrary, they are realists who recognize the need to adapt and thrive in a changing world. They understand that by being prepared, there’s one less person relying on help. And one more person able to offer it.
How governments are encouraging climate change survivalism
A central principle of the survivalist mentality is that we should not rely solely on others or external systems to ensure our well-being.
Survivalists take personal responsibility for their own lives and the lives of their loved ones. They understand that in times of crisis, waiting for help to arrive may not be an option.
Governments are starting to get on board with this thinking. They’re recognising that natural disasters are already overwhelming the capabilities of our fire and emergency services.
In their own way, governments are encouraging any of us who are willing and able to become climate change survivalists. According to Australia’s 2020 (post bushfires) Royal Commission into Natural Disasters:
“Preparing for natural disasters is not the sole domain of governments and agencies. Individuals and communities also have an important role in ensuring that, if a disaster were to strike, they are prepared to manage the consequences.”
In short, we all need to learn to survive natural disasters. And that’s exactly what climate change survivalists are doing. They invest time and effort into getting the necessary skills and knowledge to survive in emergency scenarios. They learn about first aid, basic survival techniques, and self reliance when it comes to food, water and power.
In a future of global warming, governments are saying that these are skills we should all have.
While some folks may view climate change survivalists as extreme or paranoid, they see themselves as proactive, responsible and prepared for what’s to come. They believe that being ready for any situation gives them a sense of control and peace of mind, knowing that they have taken steps to protect themselves and their families.
What do climate change survivalists do?
Climate change survivalists practice resilience and self reliance. And a big part of practising both of these, is sustainability.
Self reliance
Self-reliance in the context of climate change and worsening natural disasters refers to the ability of an individual or a community to meet their own needs. To cope with the challenges posed by climate change without relying entirely on external help.
It is the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to adapt to changing conditions, respond to emergencies, and recover from disasters:
- Knowledge and Skills: Developing the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to changing conditions, respond to emergencies, and recover from disasters. Like learning how to conserve water, make your home more energy-efficient, or take care of yourself in a flood.
- Preparedness: Being prepared for extreme weather events and general climate challenges. This includes having an emergency plan and supplies, planning evacuation routes, and having insurance.
- Resourcefulness: Being resourceful and able to make the most of available resources. Like repurposing and recycling items at home, and using renewable energy sources.
- Self-Sufficiency: Being able to meet your own basic needs without relying entirely on external sources. The big 3 are growing your own food, collecting water, and generating your own power.
- Adaptability: Being flexible and adaptable to changing conditions. This could involve being willing to change your lifestyle, habits, or even location if necessary.
- Mental and Physical Well-being: Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial for self-reliance. Exercising, eatig well, manage stress, and staying connected with friends and family.
Climate change survivalists are single-mindedly focused on gathering skills and resources to cope better with an uncertain future. Becoming proactive, resourceful, and resilient in the face of climate change and worsening natural disasters.
Resilience
Personal resilience in the context of climate change means the ability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from the adverse impacts of climate change. It involves developing the skills, knowledge, and abilities to adapt to the changing environment and to bounce back from climate-related challenges.
Climate change survivalists focus on building these 7 components of personal resilience:
- Awareness and Knowledge: Understanding the science of climate change, its impacts, and how it may affect you personally, your community, and the region where you live.
- Adaptation: Taking proactive steps to adapt to the expected changes. This could include making your home more energy-efficient, conserving water, growing your own food, or living in a location less vulnerable to climate impacts like flooding or wildfires.
- Flexibility: Being flexible and open to change. This could involve being willing to change your lifestyle, habits, or even location if necessary.
- Preparedness: Being prepared for extreme weather events and other climate-related challenges. This includes having an emergency plan and supplies, knowing evacuation routes, and having insurance.
- Community Engagement: Being engaged in your community and working together to build resilience. This could involve participating in community planning efforts, volunteering, or supporting local organizations working on climate resilience.
- Mental and Physical Well-being: Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial for resilience. Exercise, eat well, manage stress, and stay connected with friends and family.
- Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest developments in climate science, policy, and best practices for resilience. Like the articles on this website!
Personal resilience is not just about surviving the impacts of climate change, but also about thriving in a changing world. It’s a positive and proactive mindset, being adaptable, and taking responsibility for your own well-being and that of your community.
Sustainability
For climate change survivalists, sustainability is not just a buzzword but a way of life. They recognize the importance of living in greater harmony with the planet and minimizing their negative impact on it.
By adopting sustainable practices, climate change survivalists not only become more self-reliant but also contribute to the long-term resilience of their communities.
One of the ways survivalists embrace sustainability is by reducing waste. They practice recycling, composting, and reusing items whenever possible. They also strive to minimize their carbon footprint by using energy-efficient appliances.
Growing and preserving their own food is another important aspect of sustainability for survivalists. By cultivating their own gardens, they become less dependent on industrial agriculture and have a constant supply of fresh, nutritious produce. This not only ensures their own food security but also reduces the strain on the environment caused by large-scale farming practices.
Conserving energy is also a priority for survivalists. They use renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines to power their homes. They also practice energy-saving habits like turning off lights when not in use and using energy-efficient appliances.
By embracing sustainability, climate change survivalists are not only preparing for the worst but also actively working towards a more resilient and sustainable future. They understand that their actions today can have a significant impact on the world they leave behind for future generations.
The tools of a climate change survivalist
Being prepared for climate change requires having the right tools and equipment. So what to climate change survivalists invest in?
Tools to meet their basic human needs; shelter, water, food, warmth, light, and communications.
The tools and equipment of a climate change survivalist are:
- water storage and filtering equipment
- an emergency food supply
- emergency power supply – particularly solar generators and portable power stations
- medical kits,
- communication devices
- personal protection,
- tools – to fix and make things and to help with everything above, and
- survival kits.
Food and water
When it comes to food and water, survivalists understand the importance of having an emergency supply of both to sustain them for an extended period of time. They use things like
- water tanks and water filtration systems,
- food preserving kits – dehydrators, canning jars, pickling vats
- equipment to grow fresh food – fertilisers, gardening tools, food compost systems
- long term food storage containers – mylar bags, glass jars, food grade storage bins
- fire starting kits – mutliple ways to get fire from ferro rods, lighters, matches
- back up cooking equipment – butane burners, wood fires, fire pits.
- self supporting waste systems – compost toilets, incinerating toilets
Emergency power supply
In order to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources, survivalists have emergency generators. Backup power solutions that prioritize renewable energy and minimise reliance on fuel supply chains:
- solar panels – portable and rooftop
- portable power stations – power when you need to be mobile
- lithium batteries – long lifespan, rechargeable batteries
- solar generators – solar powered batteries with battery management systems
- wind turbines – to supplement solar power
- traditional fuel generators – to back up renewable systems
- portable lighting – head lamps, flashlights, lamps
- home bio-energy systems that run on alternative fuels or waste.
Medical / first aid kits
Medical kits are another crucial aspect of a survivalist’s equipment. And they often go beyond the basic first aid supplies and include items such as antibiotics, antiseptics, and other medications that may be necessary in a post-disaster scenario. Survivalists also ensure they have the knowledge and training to use these medical supplies effectively.
Communication
Communication devices play a vital role in staying connected and informed during times of crisis. Things like two-way radios, satellite phones, and other communication tools can operate even when traditional means of communication are disrupted. This allows them to stay in touch with loved ones, coordinate with networks and their community, and receive important updates and information.
Personal protection
We’re not talking guns here. The personal protection of a climate change survivalist is wellingtons, leather boots, leather gloves, wool clothing, long sleeve UV clothing, hats, protective eyewear, sunscreen, and repellant. Reflective clothing.
It’s the things you need to wear, to get yourself (and your family) through a future disaster or emergency. To live with changing disease vectors. To exist with hotter weather.
Survival tools
The tools of a climate change survivalist is a long and distinguished list of everything handy for home DIY. And a few things you’d need to survive alone in the bush. 10 of the most common tools you will find in a climate change survivalist’s tool kit are:
- Multi-Tool: A versatile multi-tool that includes a screwdriver, pliers, wrench, etc.
- Hand Saw: A compact hand saw can be used for cutting wood for a fire or building a shelter.
- Compass: A reliable compass is essential for navigation.
- Paracord: A strong, lightweight nylon rope that can be used for a variety of purposes, from building a shelter to fishing.
- Tarp: A waterproof tarp can be used for shelter, ground cover, or collecting rainwater.
- Duct Tape: Duct tape has a multitude of uses, from repairing gear to medical emergencies.
- Whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: A flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries is essential for seeing in the dark.
- Ziplock bags – to keep valuable things dry.
- Survival knife – the kind with a strong blade and partly serrated spine
Survival kits
Evacuation is often the safest course of action in an emergency or natural disaster. For floods, bushfires, cyclones – getting out fast and safely is often your only choice.
Any climate change survivalist worth their salt will always have a mobile store of emergency equipment ready for evacuation. Otherwise known as a ‘Go Bag’, a ‘Bug out Bag’, a ’72 Hour kit’, or an ‘INCH (I’m not coming home) kit’, a survival kit is one item you can expect to find in the closet of a climate change survivalist.
The types of survival kits out there is wide and varied, but they’re all desgined and tailored for one thing: survival on the go.
Climate change survivalism is not about hoarding or excessive consumption. It’s about carefully curating the things you need to become resilient and self reliant. Tools that have practical and long-term utility. And equipment to help you survive in an emergency or a crisis.
The skills of a climate change survivalists
Alongside the right tools and equipment, survivalists acquire the skills that enable them to adapt to changing circumstances. 3 types of survival skills are particularly important:
- Basic human survival skills – starting a fire, finding food, building a shelter, navigating, purifying water.
- Self reliance skills – how to get food, what crops to grow and how to maximise yield, how to collect and maintain a water supply, how to run a home generator, first aid techniques, what to do in an evacuation etc.
- Resilience skills – DIY home repairs, basic construction knowledge, how to clean up after a flood, where to live in a warming climate, how to prepare your home for climate change, how to live with hotter weather, how to live sustainably at home.
Is Climate Change Survivalism for you?
We think surviving and adapting to climate change is for everyone. And it’s all of our responsibility.
So I guess that means yes, climate change survivalism is for you.
Learning the skills and knowledge to adapt to an uncertain future, is for you.
And it’s why we’re here, day and night. Learning, sharing, researching, building a network of more resilient individuals and families.
Because, while its a choice now. It may not be in the future.
And wouldn’t you prefer to know ahead of time, what you need to do to keep your family safe?
And if it’s not as bad as the experts think, you’ve still learned a litany of valuable life lessons and practical skills to take you wherever you want in life. And to teach your kids. Because who knows what their future holds.
Recap
Climate change survivalism is a response to the challenges posed by a changing climate. Its a mindset, a learning of skills, and acquiring of tools and equipment to be more self-reliant, resilient and sustainable. Climate change survivalists are not paranoid preppers. They’re a growing network and movement of people genuinely concerned about their future. Their families. And so they’re doing what it takes today – gathering the tools, learning the skills, preparing their homes – to meet that future head on. Whatever that may bring. Are you ready to join them?