Study examines climate advocacy for seniors | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM - News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM
Study examines climate advocacy for seniors | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM
While scientists say extreme climate changes are happening more frequently, a new study aims to link aging adults to its risks and also to their potential to advocate for solutions.
Academic leaders at Cornell University have developed the Aging and Climate Change Clearinghouse in an effort to understand the intersection. The university’s Karl Pillemer directs the project and says older adults are the most vulnerable when it comes to the effects of climate change, which makes them the most qualified people to fight for solutions.
“When it comes to environmental organizations, we want them to understand that there’s a vast untapped reservoir of potential volunteers and activists who they aren’t reaching out to, namely the 75 million baby boomers and beyond.”
Pillemer says there needs to be a plan for assisting vulnerable older adults — like those living in nursing homes, or those with limited mobility — who have moved in large numbers to climate-vulnerable regions.
The clearinghouse mobilizes older adults and environmental groups for sustainable climate solutions.
Related Knowledge Center: Climate legislation
The federal government and states are in the process of implementing two laws — the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act — an investment of more than a trillion dollars to address climate change.