New Data Projects Linking Social Issues with Global Warming in New York Communities: Implications and Findings
New data projects are shedding light on the link between social issues and global warming, particularly in New York City. As city leaders delve into which neighborhoods are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, they are uncovering connections between poverty, chronic health conditions, and language barriers that exacerbate the effects of extreme weather events.
Several new data-gathering efforts, such as the U.S. Climate Vulnerability Index and the interactive map published by the New York City Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice, are providing valuable insights into how socioeconomic factors can increase a community’s overall risk to climate change. These findings reveal that neighborhoods in the city that are least prepared for climate change share common characteristics: they are impoverished, congested, and have a history of redlining and industrial pollution. Additionally, many residents in these vulnerable neighborhoods speak English as a second language.
In the South Bronx, for example, the impact of climate change is compounded by factors such as the Cross-Bronx Expressway, which has displaced residents and contributed to elevated rates of asthma. The neighborhood, where 94 percent of residents are Black or Hispanic, faces challenges like extreme heat, high rates of poverty, and chronic health conditions. Residents in the South Bronx are disproportionately affected by asthma, obesity, and other health issues, making them more vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
In Red Hook, Brooklyn, the lack of tree cover exacerbates the impact of extreme weather events like Hurricane Sandy. The neighborhood, which is low-lying and prone to flooding, struggles to support tree growth due to high water tables and dense soil. Efforts to plant and maintain trees in the area are underway, but more support is needed to improve resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change.
In Edgemere, Queens, residents face challenges like food insecurity and flooding due to the neighborhood’s proximity to water bodies. A lack of grocery stores and transportation options makes accessing fresh produce difficult for residents. Community initiatives like The Garden by the Bay provide a valuable resource for residents to grow their own food and build community resilience.
In Throgs Neck, the Bronx, limited access to resources like English classes and information poses challenges for residents during extreme weather events. The local library serves as a critical hub for community support, but budget cuts and outdated infrastructure hinder its ability to meet the needs of the community.
In East Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Brooklyn, residents are grappling with the legacy of toxins from industrial sites and oil refineries. The presence of a liquefied natural gas storage facility raises concerns about safety and environmental risks for residents in the area. Community activists are advocating for the closure of the facility and more transparency from the company responsible for its operation.
Overall, these examples highlight the intersection of social issues and climate change in New York City communities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that considers the unique vulnerabilities of each neighborhood and prioritizes equity, resilience, and community engagement. By understanding the connections between social factors and climate change, city leaders can develop targeted strategies to build more sustainable and resilient communities for the future.