Got Green is an environmental justice organization in South Seattle led by people of color, working to bring a green economy to their city. Committee leaders and climate advocacy groups are increasing their presence in communities of various socioeconomic backgrounds to develop and grow grassroots campaigns by addressing issues surrounding climate change.
WHY SHOULD YOU TAKE A LOOK
A common message highlighted in climate adaptation strategies is that low-income communities and people of color are the groups most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Researchers from Puget Sound Sage and Got Green set out into communities in South Seattle to reshape the conversation with the residents and develop policy recommendations about this notion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
After nine months of research in the community, the justice committee was able to interview 175 people in the South Seattle area. The findings highlight the key takeaways of the Climate Justice Project.
Affordable Housing Crisis Tops List of Community Concerns
One third of the participants identified housing affordability as their greatest concern impacting their community. Low–income families and people of color believe that climate resilience will be undermined if residents are displaced to suburban cities with inadequate resources.
Strong Support for Strategies to Reduce Emissions
Over 90% of survey participants indicated a high level of interest in more than 14 different climate action strategies proposed in their community. Respondents support investing in initiatives to stop climate change such as creating green jobs, improving sidewalks, and reducing carbon pollution.
Food Insecurity Top Climate Impact
Most respondents’ primary concern is the potential rise in food costs as a direct impact of climate change. Communities of low-income families are lacking access to healthy, affordable food, which is a pre-existing vulnerability in these communities.
