Climate change, including extreme weather events, can have various impacts on people living in poverty in Hong Kong. Here are five ways in which climate change can influence individuals with poverty:
Increased vulnerability to natural disasters: Extreme weather events, such as typhoons and heavy rainfall, can cause flooding, landslides, and damage to infrastructure. Individuals living in poverty often reside in vulnerable areas with inadequate housing and limited resources to cope with the aftermath of such disasters. They may face higher risks of displacement, loss of possessions, and disruption of livelihoods.
Health risks and increased healthcare burden: Climate change can lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, which can have adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable populations. People living in poverty may lack access to adequate cooling facilities, suffer from heat-related illnesses, and face challenges in accessing healthcare services to address these health risks.
Increased living costs: Climate change can impact the availability and affordability of essential resources. For example, extreme weather events can disrupt agricultural production and lead to food price fluctuations. People with limited resources may struggle to afford necessities, exacerbating their poverty situation.
Limited access to adaptation measures: Adaptation measures, such as improved infrastructure, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness, can help mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, individuals living in poverty may have limited access to these measures due to financial constraints or inadequate support systems, leaving them more vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather events.
Disproportionate effects on livelihoods: Climate change can disrupt livelihoods, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and construction. People in poverty who depend on these sectors for their income may face job losses, reduced work opportunities, and income instability. This can further deepen their poverty situation and hinder their ability to recover from climate-related shocks.
