The climate emergency is a human disaster. But not all people are affected equally; the poor and vulnerable will always be the ones to suffer most from climate-related disasters. Recently, Mozambique has been impacted by unprecedented tropical storms which are connected with climate chaos.

Just last week, Australia met with the Pacific Islands Forum and has removed almost all references to coal and the term ‘climate crisis’. This is more shocking as they met in Tuvalu, one of the countries most at risk due to the climate crisis – at less than 3 metres above sea level, it may be the first nation forced to relocate due to human induced sea level rise. We cannot ignore this inequality any further. We need to recognise that justice and equity are vital to respond to climate chaos. 

And this isn’t just about inequality in the world; it’s also within the UK. It is those who experience the greatest deprivation that are most at risk from all kinds of environmental negatives. 

These risks experienced by the British public vary from flooding (increase in more deprived populations living within zones at risk from flooding) to air quality (the most deprived neighborhoods experience the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide). These are issues that require tackling and can no longer be turned away from as these issues are now on our own doorsteps.

We need to tackle this by influencing decisions at all levels and raising awareness of this injustice. 

Lambeth council have declared a climate emergency, but without actions this is meaningless. Join us in demanding that Lambeth appoints a Climate Emergency Lead to expedite and oversee actions relating to the climate emergency. We must hold the council to account and challenge environmental injustices.

If you want to get more involved, join us at our next meeting! Our monthly meetings are every second Thursday of the month, from 7pm. Email us for more info (foelambeth@gmail.com).