Adaptation & Imagination Part 3: Tomorrow’s Fear – Uncertainty in a changing climate

By Jacqueline van Meygaarden

As climate change reshapes our landscapes, South Africans confront an uncertain future marked by increasing frequency of extreme weather events—floods, droughts, and unpredictable storms—that threaten not only livelihoods but also food security. This reality can breed fear and anxiety, especially for those already grappling with economic instability and resource scarcity. Many South Africans experience this uncertainty daily, and with climate change intensifying these challenges, the scale of impact is set to grow, leaving communities feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed.

This sense of uncertainty is captured in a poem by Roland Langley, written during the Adaptation Network Colloquium in July 2024. It was created in a Creative Writing & Poetry Workshop co-hosted by Mycelium Media Colab.  Participants were given a variety of writing prompts to create written pieces that reflect some of their own experiences, weaving together personal narratives with some of the ideas around climate adaptation.

One of the most daunting aspects of the climate crisis is the unpredictability of the future. The anxiety of not knowing when the next massive storm will strike, or how farmers will sustain their crops during prolonged dry spells, are things that could weigh heavily on many. This uncertainty can breed a profound fear—not just of what may happen tomorrow, but of what might become of entire communities and ecosystems in the years to come.

Adapting to climate change is not just about survival; it involves cultivating resilience and hope in the face of challenges. It is about forging pathways toward a sustainable future, where communities not only endure the challenges posed by a changing climate but also thrive through innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to protect the planet and their own livelihoods. Acknowledging and addressing the anxiety of the unknown is important, as it empowers individuals and communities to embrace change and find the pathways toward a more stable and hopeful tomorrow.