Eco-anxiety and ocean stewardship: evidence from a U.S. National Survey

Introduction The present exploratory study investigates emotions, pro-environmental behaviors, and demographic predictors of ocean-related eco-anxiety. Methods A nationally representative sample of 1,226 United States adults, standardized by age, gender, and geographic region, completed an online survey assessing psychological responses to ocean degradation, pro-environmental behaviors, and emotional connection to the marine environment. Results The results of regression analysis revealed that individuals experiencing ocean-related eco-anxiety were more likely to report decreased depression near the ocean, express high concern about ocean conservation, reduce their carbon footprint, take action to protect the ocean, as well as hold the belief that ocean protection is the sole responsibility of the government. Furthermore, those who reported that fear motivates them to take ocean conservation action were also more likely to report experiencing high levels of eco-anxiety, suggesting that negative emotions can act as powerful drivers of ocean conservation action. With regard to age, among all age groups, adults aged 30–44 years old were significantly less likely to report ocean-related eco-anxiety. Conclusion Taken together, these findings highlight the complex role of eco-anxiety in motivating conservation behavior and underscore the need to integrate emotional dimensions into future ocean stewardship efforts. Addressing eco-anxiety through conservation messaging and mental health interventions may strengthen emotional resilience and foster long-term commitment to ocean conservation.