Future Island-Island Impact Cards: Connecting through Solastalgia

Challenge
This fellowship explored solastalgia, the grief caused by environmental
loss and how such emotions can inspire positive action. Through activities
like beach cleans and creative practices, the project supported health and
wellbeing while helping participants reconnect with nature, fostering a
renewed sense of ecological identity and care for the environment.
Approach
Informed by Albrecht’s (2019) work on solastalgia and Power’s (2021) concept
of ‘enviro-leisure activism,’ this investigation applied behavioural and civic
design approaches (Martin & Hanington, 2019) to encourage engagement. It
fostered awareness and motivation, promoting activities that benefit individual
wellbeing, community health, and the wider environmental ecosystem.
Outcomes
A diptych of short films was created and screened within the community,
sparking dialogue on the causes and impacts of marine plastic pollution.
Solastalgia events on Rathlin provided space for reflection on ecological
identity, using meditation and creative engagement with natural elements to
deepen connection with the environment.
Learnings
Despite ongoing corporate pollution, global communities continue efforts
to protect shorelines, finding meaning and wellbeing in the process. Though
often overwhelming, such actions support mental and physical health.
Reconnecting with nature as part of our identity, rather than separate from us,
through emotional and creative expression may be essential.
Impact
Community film screenings offered valuable feedback and moments of focus,
while workshops created space to reconnect without distraction. The simple
methodology encouraged creative play across all ages, reinforcing the vital
message that healthy oceans mean healthy people; and that reflection and
imagination are key to restoring that balance.