Hope for Safety: Examining the Perception of Extreme Weather Events in Global South Cities

Less than half of people in Global South cities feel safe from extreme weather events, but hope remains – Greenpeace

Amsterdam, The Netherlands – A recent opinion poll commissioned by Greenpeace International in seven major cities across the Global South has revealed that less than half of the people feel safe from extreme weather events. The poll was presented in the context of the upcoming UN’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction.

The Link to Climate Change

When asked about the biggest problems in their cities, the top two responses given by the participants were traffic congestion (46%) and air pollution (42%), both of which are linked to climate change. Other top answers included crime and violence (42%), corruption (40%), unemployment (34%), and the increasing number of people moving to cities (34%). This data highlights the urgent need to address the climate emergency from a comprehensive perspective that includes social and economic issues.

Addressing Climate and Social Crises

Gabriela Vuolo, the Urban Justice Global Campaign Leader at Greenpeace International, emphasized the importance of listening to the communities that have historically been excluded and are now most impacted by the climate and social crises. She highlighted the fact that the climate emergency cannot be effectively tackled without considering the underlying social and economic issues faced by these communities.

An Optimistic Outlook

Despite the adverse context, over half of the urban residents (56%) consulted in the poll expressed optimism about the future and believed that their city could become their “dream city.” The survey also found a positive correlation between feeling safe from extreme weather events and optimism about the future. This suggests that the more secure people feel, the more hopeful they are about their cities.

The Power of Communities

Greenpeace International acknowledges that urban communities have the collective power to build better cities. From women demanding equality in urban centers to neighborhoods in peripheries resisting extreme weather events, there is a growing movement of people actively working towards creating their dream cities. Decision-makers need to recognize this power and actively involve local communities, especially those who have been marginalized, in the co-creation and transformation of cities.

Editorial: A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Emergency

The Greenpeace opinion poll sheds light on the complex relationship between climate change, social issues, and individual perceptions of safety in Global South cities. It is evident that addressing the climate emergency requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond focusing solely on environmental measures. To effectively tackle the climate crisis, decision-makers must consider the economic, social, and political factors that contribute to vulnerability and work towards equitable solutions.

Climate change exacerbates existing social and economic disparities, with marginalized communities often bearing the brunt of extreme weather events. This reality demands a collaborative effort that involves the voices and experiences of those who are most affected. By actively engaging with local communities and promoting urban justice, decision-makers can create sustainable solutions that address both the climate and social crises.

Advice

In light of the Greenpeace poll’s findings, it is crucial for governments, policymakers, and urban planners to prioritize the safety and well-being of their citizens. Here are a few recommendations to consider:

1. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure:

Invest in resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events and minimize their impact on communities. This includes measures such as improved drainage systems, elevated buildings in flood-prone areas, and green infrastructure to mitigate air pollution.

2. Community Engagement:

Involve local communities in decision-making processes to ensure their unique needs, concerns, and knowledge are taken into account. This can be achieved through community-based organizations, public consultations, and participatory planning approaches.

3. Social and Economic Development:

Address the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to vulnerability in cities. This includes tackling issues such as poverty, inequality, and access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

4. Climate Education and Awareness:

Promote climate education and awareness programs to empower individuals and communities to take action against climate change. This can involve initiatives such as school curriculum integration, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building workshops.

5. International Cooperation:

Foster international cooperation and knowledge-sharing to learn from successful strategies and solutions implemented in other cities and countries. Collaboration between global South cities, as well as with cities in the global North, can help accelerate progress towards climate resilience.

Conclusion

The Greenpeace opinion poll highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the climate emergency in Global South cities. By considering the social and economic dimensions of climate change, decision-makers can create inclusive, sustainable, and resilient cities. It is crucial to recognize and empower the communities that are most impacted by the climate crisis, as they hold valuable knowledge and experience that can contribute to transformative change. With collective action, cities have the potential to become dream cities for all their residents, ensuring a safer and more sustainable future.

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