Climate Crisis Communication and the Representation of Eco-Anxiety on Social Media: Perception Analysis of Urban-Rural Gen-Z in Bandung Raya Aldin Aldama, Ahmad Fadhli, Madani Sri Rahayu, Nabilah Salsabila
Universitas Islam Bandung
Abstract
The global climate crisis not only produces environmental consequences but also emotional strain, particularly among Generation Z (Gen-Z) immersed in social media. One emerging psychosocial impact is eco-anxiety-a heightened concern for the Earth^s future intensified by digital exposure to climate narratives. This study investigates how eco-anxiety is represented and experienced differently by Gen-Z in urban and rural areas of Greater Bandung, focusing on the role of social media in shaping perceptions and expressions. Using a qualitative exploratory case study, data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with five purposively selected Gen-Z participants. Analysis uncovered patterns of emotional representation and evolving digital narratives on climate anxiety. Findings show urban Gen-Z experience eco-anxiety more intensely, with critical, digitally mediated expressions influenced by global climate discourse. In contrast, rural Gen-Z exhibit more composed, spiritually grounded responses rooted in religious values and communal solidarity. Eco-anxiety is expressed across digital formats such as memes, visual storytelling, and online comments, reflecting emotions ranging from distress to resignation. These results underscore the need for climate communication strategies sensitive to local contexts and youth affective experiences. The study highlights social media as a critical arena for emotional expression within crisis communication and climate psychology research. Implications point to the urgency of developing public communication models that reflect social and geographical diversity among Gen-Z, while future research should design digital interventions that transform eco-anxiety into eco-agency.
Keywords: eco-anxiety, climate communication, gen-z, social media, urban-rural
