Would Rivers Change Shape? Exploring Past, Present and Future Narratives of Eco-Grief

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ABSTRACT Experiences of grief in relation to ecological destruction and environmental loss, otherwise known as eco-grief, are growing in prevalence and recognition as the climate crisis worsens. However, white western narratives of eco-grief tend to dominate the landscape, disenfranchising the stories of those most likely to bear the brunt of climate-related loss as a result of oppressive societal structures and systems. This paper examines past, present and future narratives of eco-grief by weaving together a collaboratively created, multimedia scenario of family hope and environmental loss alongside extant stories of grief and the places beyond it. Utilising scenario building as an exploratory tool, we engaged in a collective narrative process and offer prompts to reflect upon when envisioning climate and eco-grief futures. We encourage readers to engage with our accompanying video scenario: https://youtu.be/K5IcEVfHswE. We hope readers might find something of value in these stories or the processes we used which serve as encouragement to include play and creative expression in nontraditional ways, both in their practice and in support of others. The article ends with prompts to invite reflection on present-day narratives and contribute to expansive visions of future eco-grief and hope.