The U.S. experienced 24 major climate disasters in 2024 with heavy tolls on lives and economy. Significant progress in addressing climate change via federal investments is at risk due to political actions. Advocacy for climate justice, particularly for vulnerable communities, is crucial. The call to protect climate achievements and promote policies for a safe future is urgent.
In 2024, the U.S. faced 24 weather and climate disasters, each inflicting over $1 billion in damage. These events, including severe storms and wildfires, resulted in 418 deaths, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action. The average number of such disasters has escalated from 8.5 (1980-2023) to 20.4 in the last five years, showcasing the increasing human and economic toll of climate change.
The U.S. has achieved significant progress in the fight against climate change, driven by collaboration between labor unions, environmental justice advocates, and businesses, bolstered by public support. Federal investments through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the infrastructure law have catalyzed this movement, creating jobs, reducing energy costs, and enhancing public health across the nation.
However, these advancements are currently threatened. President Trump’s early actions to halt disbursement of funds from the IRA endanger climate initiatives. Essential components like grants and tax credits aimed at clean energy investments, crucial for both Republican and Democratic districts, now face jeopardy.
Organizations like Poder Latinx and EcoMadres are committed to addressing environmental justice, particularly for Latino families disproportionately affected by climate change. Recent events, such as the Los Angeles wildfires, have underscored how low-income communities of color experience greater impacts from disasters, highlighting the need for equitable governmental responses.
Globally, approximately 265 million people have been displaced since 2008 due to climate-related disasters like floods and wildfires. Effective climate solutions exist, but only if actively implemented. The emphasis is on advocating for policies that diminish fossil fuel reliance and bolster pollution controls and environmental justice.
To provide a safe future for our community, it is essential to protect our climate achievements. As powerful interests seek to undermine this progress, the urgency for collective advocacy becomes paramount. Lawmakers must resist these efforts and uphold the investments critical for a healthier, cleaner future.
As Latina leaders, we call on officials to prioritize scientific evidence, address health disparities, and take immediate action on the climate crisis. Protecting vulnerable populations, especially children, is vital, and a resilient future relies on robust climate policies and actions implemented now.
The article highlights the alarming rise in climate-related disasters in the U.S., showing a growing trend in the frequency and severity of such events. It discusses the significant progress made through federal investments aimed at combating climate change, particularly the benefits achieved by the Inflation Reduction Act and infrastructure law. Additionally, it emphasizes the particular challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly Latino populations, due to climate change effects and inadequate government responses. There is a strong call for continued advocacy and policy action to protect these investments and promote environmental justice.
The escalating climate crisis, underscored by the devastating impacts of recent disasters, demands immediate action and a firm commitment to protecting federal investments in climate solutions. Advocacy efforts must focus on promoting policies that enhance environmental justice and safeguard vulnerable communities. By prioritizing solid climate action now, we ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Original Source: www.univision.com
