By Mallika Raj
From the volcanic eruptions in Spain’s La Palma to the earthquake in Haiti, the effects of climate change had never been more evident. As per Oxfam, the Richest 1% produces more than double the carbon emissions of the poorest half of the world. Yet, it seems this burden is to be borne by the poor alone.
Climate change plays a significant role in the rising poverty situation. The recent UN IPCC report warned that Global Warming will hit the 1.5C mark by 2040. It will only accelerate the process and lead to more disasters and climatic abnormalities.
Natural disasters, created by climate change, have a drastic effect on the poor. They usually lose most if not all of their possessions. Additionally, 3 out of 4 people rely on agriculture and natural resources to survive. Changes in the environment and constant pollution lead to low crop yields, crop failures, drying up of lakes and wells, and loss of fish for the fishermen. Scarce resources lead to inflation, pushing them even further into the abyss of poverty.
As per new research by the World Bank, climate change will drive 68 million to 132 million into poverty by 2030.
For this reason, it’s imperative that before formulating any policies or initiatives, organizations and governments take into consideration the environmental impact. Especially with economies recuperating from the aftereffects of the pandemic, it is possible that governments and organizations will forget the environmental consequences in pursuit of rapid economic development.
The best way forward would be to invest in green industries and jobs, creating circular economies and promoting sustainable local businesses. Encouraging Regenerative agriculture is another plausible solution.
It is important to remember that our small actions will not only help the environment but those most vulnerable against it.
Teach For Green 