Evidence15 June 2010
There are countless examples of environmental injustice - both in the UK and around the world.
The least wealthy are more likely to suffer from climate change
How do we know? Scientists say that one of the effects of climate change is more unpredictable weather such as drought.
And droughts, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa, hit poorest people the hardest.
Scientists also say that climate change causes rising sea levels.
Already some Pacific islands are being abandoned as they are swallowed up by the ocean.
Climate change on your doorstep
It's not just other countries where people with the least money take the worst hit.
Look at flooding in the UK.
Scientists predict wetter winters as a result of climate change could lead to more flooding.
Low-income families will be most affected by this.
This is because:
- Low-income families are 8 times more likely to live in a high-risk flood area
- 1.5 million people in social housing do not have contents insurance
Source: Association of British Insurers
Pollution
If you're less well off, you tend to consume fewer things and cause the least environmental damage.
This includes pollution: people on lower incomes are more likely to rely on public transport, can't afford lots of plane flights and are less likely to own a big, gas-guzzling car.
Did you know?
Children in poorer communities are five times more likely to be killed in road accidents than those from richer areas.
Source: AA
Poor planning
New planning laws mean individuals will have less say in big decisions that affect where they live.
These decisions include new:
- Airports and railways
- Power stations
- Large waste incinerators
- Ports and reservoirs
Find out more about the new planning system
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