Editor’s choice
Editor’s choice
This article suggests that an understanding of the factors which contribute to older people’s vulnerability and resilience can strengthen the capacity of government to prevent and minimise the climate-related impacts on this demographic group.
An aging society and a changing climate are two key policy challenges that need to be addressed to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and ensure a safe, secure, equitable, and sustainable future. By the end of the century, the global surface temperature is likely to increase by 1.5 °C to 2 °C although the 2015 Paris Agreement aims to reduce emissions and limit warming to below 2 °C. As the planet warms, we can expect climate-related extremes, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, cyclones, and wildfires. Increasing climate variability will have direct and indirect effects on human health and well-being, especially of vulnerable groups. While many older people are healthy and socially and economically active, others are not, rendering them physically, financially and/or emotionally less resilient in coping with a changing climate.
Read the article (link to publisher, subscription required)
Other publication / Our research contributed to this report for HelpAge International, which makes recommendations for supporting ageing populations through the climate crisis.
Perspective / The heatwave that coincided with London Climate Action Week underscores the UK's urgent need to adapt to limit the threats to schools, the economy and society.
Past event / SEI colleagues are taking part in events at LCAW to highlight global leadership in industry and energy transitions, climate resilience finance, and adaptation.
