Adopt eco-friendly practices, a phrase that is easier said than done. Why? Because there are various challenges faced by backward sections of society. A recent study highlights that it is necessary to address socioeconomic inequalities for a net-zero future so that every individual possesses the necessary resources. This should include improvising financial means, physical ability, and time availability to implement these changes.

In a report published recently, researchers mentioned the critical importance of addressing inequality in advancing the world towards Net-Zero. They argue that inequality limits the accessibility of low-carbon behaviors, making it imperative to tackle this issue. According to expert opinion, in order to effectively mitigate climate change, it is necessary to implement changes throughout society. While established or people with higher incomes may have substantial carbon footprints, they also possess the resources to more readily diminish their environmental impact compared to those with lower incomes.

According to the researchers, there is a lack of political acknowledgement of the obstacles that can hinder people from adopting more climate-friendly behaviors. Policymakers should ensure that all income brackets in society have equal opportunities to engage in low-carbon behaviors.

First author of the report, Dr. Charlotte Kukowski, a postdoctoral researcher in the University of Cambridge Departments of Psychology and Zoology, said, “It’s increasingly acknowledged that there’s inequality in terms of who causes climate change and who suffers the consequences, but there’s far less attention being paid to the effect of inequality in changing behaviors to reduce carbon emissions. People on lower incomes can be more restricted in the things they can do to help reduce their carbon footprint, in terms of the cost and time associated with doing things differently.”

Second author and a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Oxford, Dr. Emma Garnett said, “If you have more money, you’re likely to cause more carbon emissions, but you’re also more likely to have greater ability to change the things you do and reduce those emissions. Interventions targeting high-emitting individuals are urgently needed, but also many areas where there are lower-carbon choices—like food and transport—need everyone to be involved.”

Main Concerns Highlighted in the Report

Inequality is highlighted through different categories in the report:

  • Wealth and income
  • Political influence
  • Free time
  • Access to low-carbon options (public transport)
  • Inaccessible housing insulation subsidies

Researchers have discovered that deep-seated inequalities can severely limit individuals’ ability to adopt more environmentally friendly behaviors in various ways. Some of those are mentioned below:

  • Insulating homes in the U.K. can be expensive, especially for renters who have limited control over their living conditions.
  • Many old houses in the U.K. lack proper insulation, resulting in higher heating costs compared to new homes. The researchers suggest that the government implements suitable programs to help individuals in lower income groups reduce their home’s carbon emissions.
  • Switching to plant-based foods instead of meat and animal products is a great way for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint. But these alternatives are often inaccessible or way too expensive. This makes it difficult for everyone to adopt a meat-free lifestyle.
  • Buying an electric car or bike is expensive, and those without permanent jobs can’t get tax breaks or financing through employer programs.
  • Many people find it difficult to consider low-carbon transport alternatives, such as using public transportation instead of a private car, because of the inadequate services available, especially in rural areas.
  • Most of the lower-carbon alternatives are less affordable, putting them out of reach for those with lower incomes.

Ways to Tackle the Concerns

According to researchers, to address socioeconomic inequalities for a net-zero future promoting lower-carbon behaviors often relies on providing information. However, simply understanding the issues may not be enough to overcome the obstacles to change. They recommend various policy actions, like:

  • Incorporating bus and bike lanes
  • Pedestrian-friendly routes into urban planning
  • Implementing progressive taxation on wealth and income
  • Providing employer-subsidized low-carbon meal options

Source: Reducing Inequality is Essential in Tackling Climate Crisis

Share.
mm

Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference.

Leave A Reply