Olivia Waterton, Climate Analytics: “We can turn climate anxiety into action—if we work together.”
June 26, 2025
As a junior climate policy analyst at Climate Analytics, Olivia Waterton is part of a global team working to shape climate policy through science. From her base in Berlin, she collaborates with colleagues across continents to help governments and communities make informed, ambitious decisions for the planet.
But Olivia’s journey into climate work didn’t begin in a policy lab or a government office. It started on a college campus, in a town threatened by an oil pipeline.
“There was a company that wanted to put an oil pipeline through the area,” she recalls. “I was able to engage with other students and local organisations to advocate against it. Eventually, the pipeline was cancelled.”
That experience was a turning point. It showed her the power of collective action—and planted the seed for a career in climate advocacy. Today, Olivia’s work focuses on translating complex climate data into actionable insights. And she sees the impact of that work in real time.
“It’s incredibly motivating when stakeholders tell us how they’re using our results,” she says. “Whether it’s in local meetings or national policy discussions, knowing that my work is helping to push for higher climate ambition makes me feel like I’m making a real difference.”
Combating Climate Anxiety
Despite the challenges of working in a field often defined by urgency and uncertainty, Olivia remains hopeful—especially as a young person in climate.
“We hear a lot about climate anxiety among young people,” she says. “But working here helps me combat that. I’m not just recycling or taking the train—I’m contributing to policy analysis and helping move the conversation forward.”
Innovation and Hope
One area that excites her is the rapid evolution of battery technology for electric vehicles.
“It’s where everything comes together—materials, science, policy, and how we live our lives,” she explains. “New battery chemistries that use fewer materials could transform how we move and reduce our environmental footprint.”
What gives her the most hope? The people.
“I get to work with incredibly smart, dedicated people who are trying to make real change. That’s what keeps me going.”
About
The IKEA Foundation is partnering with Climate Analytics, an established climate science and policy institute that provides scientific evidence to inform decision making in line with the 1.5°C warming limit and accelerate climate action at national and global levels.
