Not everybody experiences the impacts of climate change in the same way or has the same means of coping with the negative consequences. Similarly, not everyone benefits from the solutions to address climate change in the same way, and in many cases, solutions that purely focus on GHG emission reductions can harmthose who experience a high level of vulnerability.
As we take action on climate change, we must work to identify opportunities for reducing inequalities every step of the way, prevent existing inequities from continuing further, and focus on solutions that increase equity. Building and maintaining reciprocal relationships between equity-deserving groups and local municipalities and climate action organizations is a crucial first step. Simultaneously, metrics to measure progress to ensure we achieve what we set out to must be established. To make a meaningful impact, this work must be ongoing, adequately funded, and continually evolve to reflect our community’s needs. This work must be guided by the voices of those with lived experience, as we strive to meet and exceed our short and long-term targets. For this purpose, we need to ensure that our decision-making committees and leadership reflect the diversity of our community and include meaningful representation from equity-seeking groups.