The poor across the world in developing countries had little to do in causing global warming but they are suffering the most from the impacts of climate change. For example, higher temperatures are allowing mosquitoes carrying malaria and dengue fever to reach previously unexposed communities in higher altitudes. The World Health Organization estimates that 150,000 new deaths are caused each year due to the spread of these diseases.
In Africa, a large percentage of the population relies on farming for survival – changes in the rain patterns and the increase in frequency and severity of droughts may reduce crop yields by 50% by 2020 and put an additional fifty million people at risk for malnutrition. The accelerated melting of glaciers in Asia, essential in providing clean drinking water throughout the year and for farming, will put one billion people at risk for severe water shortages by 2050.
Women represent seventy percent of the population of the developing world and they are especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change. In Africa for example, the expected dramatic decrease in crop yields will hit women hardest since they are responsible for seventy-five percent of all food production. In many developing countries women are extremely vulnerable because they have the lowest education levels, have the lowest incomes, and they have little access to information. Women are least able to flee during natural disasters as they must take care of their children and tend to crops and livestock.
While significant strides have been made in reducing poverty around the world in recent years, the effects of climate change threaten to plunge many back into poverty. And despite these advances, over 2 billion people still struggle to survive on less than $2/day. Many regions may face mass population movements due to lack of food or water; from sea level rise, or from fleeing severe weather events. Political instability and conflict will ripple through many areas due to these impacts.
In spite of the clear moral, economic, and security implications the United States has done little to promote international adaptation. For a global climate deal to be reached, the United States and other wealthy countries will need to contribute to international funding mechanisms designed to advance adaptation in developing countries.
