The Benefits of Critical Reflection to Progress Climate Action: A Qualitative Study

In this article, the authors address a critical tension between the urgent need for climate action and the challenges of embedding eco-social work across the profession. Qualitative findings from a PhD study conducted in Victoria, Australia, highlight six participants' engagement with climate change. The research methodology drew from critical reflection and critical ethnography. Identified themes that reinforced the construct of eco-social work as a distinct field of practice are summarised. Subsequently, through the use of Fook's critical reflection framework (2023), barriers to climate engagement are explored in partnership with participants. An example of the critical reflection process integrated into one interview series showcases collaborative strategies to overcome key barriers faced. In conclusion we emphasised the emancipatory potential of Fook's frameworks to support climate action within mainstream social work.IMPLICATIONSSocial work is required to respond to the social justice implications of advanced climate change, whether eco-social work is viewed as a distinct field of practice or foundational across the profession.Critical reflection provides an opportunity to challenge modernist notions of power and identity construction that have the potential to impact climate engagement.Practitioners engaging with critical reflection can progress the climate agenda for Australian social work.