Cartooning in the Anthropocene

This study examines how cartoons address the economic determinants of pro-environmental behaviour under capitalism by analysing the interplay between their verbal and visual elements within the framework of the Modular Interdependency Model (MIM). The findings reveal that many cartoons critique the relationship between ecological issues, capitalism, and consumer lifestyles, while some explore the economic determinants of pro-environmental behaviour, such as socio-economic status, gender, and lifestyle, potentially encouraging behavioural change. Moreover, several cartoons propose solutions like degrowth, restrained consumerism, effective communication, and media and corporate responsibility, while addressing barriers such as tokenism and cognitive biases. The study concludes with strategies to enhance the impact of humorous and satirical environmental communication, suggesting that such approaches can effectively engage audiences and inspire meaningful action.