Why Climate Fiction Matters Now

By VirentaNews Staff — May 29, 2026

Helen Phillips, the winner of the Climate Fiction prize for her novel Hum, believes that stories have the power to make a difference in the way people think about climate change. In a recent interview, Phillips discussed her anxieties about the climate crisis and how writing about it has helped her process her emotions. As the world grapples with the challenges of global warming, Phillips’ work offers a unique perspective on the role of storytelling in raising awareness and inspiring action.

The Evidence of Climate Fiction’s Impact

Studies have shown that reading fiction can increase empathy and understanding of social and environmental issues. Climate fiction, in particular, has been recognized as a genre that can inspire people to think critically about the consequences of human actions on the planet. According to a report by the New Scientist, climate fiction can play a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions. With the rise of climate fiction, authors like Phillips are using their platform to raise awareness about the urgent need for climate action.

The Players in the Climate Fiction Movement

Authors like Phillips are not alone in their efforts to use storytelling to address the climate crisis. The Climate Fiction prize, which Phillips won for her novel Hum, is part of a larger movement to recognize and promote climate fiction. Other notable authors in the genre include Margaret Atwood and Kim Stanley Robinson, who have used their work to explore the consequences of climate change. The climate fiction community is growing, with new authors and publications emerging every year.

The Trade-Offs of Tackling Climate Change Through Fiction

While climate fiction has the potential to inspire people to take action, it also faces challenges in terms of reaching a wider audience. Some critics argue that climate fiction can be alienating or overwhelming, particularly for readers who are already feeling anxious about the climate crisis. However, authors like Phillips believe that the benefits of climate fiction outweigh the costs. By using storytelling to explore the complexities of climate change, authors can create a sense of emotional connection and empathy that is essential for inspiring action.

Timing is Everything in the Climate Fiction Movement

The timing of the climate fiction movement is critical, as the world is facing a climate emergency that requires immediate attention. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned that the next decade is crucial for taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the worst effects of climate change. As the climate crisis continues to escalate, authors like Phillips are using their work to sound the alarm and inspire people to take action.

Where We Go From Here

As the climate fiction movement continues to grow, it is likely that we will see more authors using their platform to address the climate crisis. In the next 6-12 months, we can expect to see a surge in climate fiction publications, as well as increased recognition of the genre through awards and prizes. Three possible scenarios for the future of climate fiction include: a growing recognition of the genre as a powerful tool for inspiring climate action, an increase in the number of authors writing about climate change, and a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusivity in climate fiction.

Bottom line: Helen Phillips’ novel Hum is a powerful example of the impact that climate fiction can have on raising awareness and inspiring action on climate change, and her work is likely to be an important part of the growing climate fiction movement in the years to come.

Source: New Scientist