Can we solve the climate crisis without confronting global inequities?
A recent study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA found that white residents in the USA produce more climate pollution than black or hispanic residents, but black and hispanic people are exposed to more air pollution.
And that is just the USA! Think about the global inequities in the "haves" and the "have nots".
And how are we going to lift people out of poverty without making the climate crisis even worse?
If you are a resident in a wealthy country, is it your responsibility to address both problems at once? And what would that look like in terms of national and international policy?
Environmental Justice >
how 2 help people in poverty without making climate crisis worse?
There are many reasons why we should help people in poverty without making the climate crisis worse. Here are a few:
- Moral obligation: We have a moral obligation to help those who are less fortunate than us, especially those who are living in poverty. This obligation is even greater when we consider that the climate crisis is largely caused by the actions of wealthy countries, and that people in poverty are disproportionately affected by its impacts.
- Human rights: Everyone has the right to a decent standard of living, and this includes access to food, water, shelter, healthcare, and education. Climate change is making it more difficult for people in poverty to access these basic necessities. By helping to reduce poverty and address climate change, we can help to ensure that everyone can enjoy their human rights.
In addition to the above reasons, helping people in poverty without making the climate crisis worse can boost economies. Investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other sustainable development initiatives can create jobs, boost economic growth, and improve the quality of life for everyone.
Here are some ways to help people in poverty without making the climate crisis worse, according to the World Resources Institute: https://www.wri.org
- Invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency. This will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create jobs in the clean energy sector.
- Support sustainable agriculture and forestry practices. This will help to reduce deforestation and soil erosion, and improve food security for people in poverty.
- Provide access to clean water and sanitation. This will help to reduce the spread of disease and improve the health of people in poverty.
- Invest in education and healthcare. This will help people in poverty to develop the skills and knowledge they need to improve their lives and adapt to climate change.
- Promote gender equality and women's empowerment. Women are often disproportionately affected by poverty and climate change, so it is important to ensure that they have equal access to resources and opportunities.
Let me know if I missed any ideas so far 