LGBTQ+ people are more at risk of adverse effects of climate change

LGBTQ+ people are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change, according to a Williams Institute report released in time for Earth Day.

The study’s authors looked at U.S. Census data on where same-gender couples live to determine whether they lived in areas with increased risk of extreme weather events due to climate change.

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The report says that gay and bi couples are more likely to live in coastal areas and cities, as well as in counties with an increased risk of adverse climate change effects, according to NASA’s composite risk score, which looks at potential changes like extreme cold, heat waves, excessive precipitation, and dry conditions.

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These couples are also more likely to live in areas with poorer infrastructure and access to resources, which means they’re “less prepared to respond and adapt to natural hazards and other climate disruptions.”

For example, the county equivalent with the highest proportion of gay and bi couples – D.C. – is near the top of the list when it comes to increased risks of heat waves, flooding, and dangerously strong winds.

“Given the disparate impact of climate change on LGBTQ populations, climate change policies, including [catastrophe] preparedness, response, and recovery plans, must address the specific needs and vulnerabilities facing LGBTQ people,” study co-author Ari Shaw told the Washington Blade.

“Policies should focus on mitigating discriminatory housing and urban development practices, making shelters safe spaces for LGBT people, and ensuring that relief aid reaches displaced LGBTQ individuals and families,” Shaw added.