Climate Gentrification: Why Environmentalism and Social Justice Are Two Sides…..

Many people wonder why some rich people can have such remarkably callous disregard for the well-being of the planet, given that everyone, rich and poor, will suffer from the effects of climate change, air pollution, ocean acidification, loss of biodiveristy, etc.

While this is true, the level of suffering will not affect everyone equally, and environmental ruin will inflict far more pain on the poor.  What happens in a food shortage? Are all rib-eye steaks gone?  Of course not; they’re just harder to come by.  Technology available to those who can afford it will always provide purified air and water, fine food and drink, and every other conceivable luxury.

From today’s newsletter from the American Energy Society:

“Climate gentrification” noun, def: extreme weather (hurricanes, flooding, etc.) disproportionately destroys lower-cost homes and buildings. Most governments respond to the damage by rebuilding better quality structures and pricier accommodations, which typically displaces the previous residents. Economists are calling this “climate gentrification“; areas destroyed by extreme weather that have become wealthier include coastlines in New Jersey, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida.

This is why environmental activism and advocacy for social justice are two sides of the same coin.