Climate change affects us all, especially the most vulnerable and it’s really important that we all engage with this issue; it’s not going away! The Manchester BME Network in partnership with its members, MC-UK, Creative Hands and Salford Refugee Network is undertaking a project looking at “Climate change and BME Communities “with a specific focus on two vulnerable communities; older people and refugees and asylum seekers. We hope to understand further the needs of the community and find solutions to help support the community better. This project is funded by Defra (Department for environment, food and rural affairs) and will conclude its findings at a conference open to all on the 22 March 2013.
So, how is Climate Change affecting life in the UK and in Manchester?
• average temperatures are set to rise year round and urban areas could be particularly susceptible to intense summer heat . Have you noticed the changing summers?
• rivers in the southern and western areas of Greater Manchester already have a high flood risk and this is likely to increase . Did you know this?
• flash floods from heavy rainfall will be a growing threat for the built up areas . Have you seen this?
In addition we know that our communities, in particular, are also affected by what happens in other parts of the world where they have family and friends and where the affects of climate change are more acute and severe.
We all need to:
reduce carbon emissions to avoid runaway climate change
adapt to the inevitable changes already on the cards
You can read more about our project in the latest edition of Manchester Climate Monthly in an interview with the Chair of the Manchester BME Network by Arwa Aburawa.
Or why not come along to our conference on the 22nd of March at London Scottish House, 24 Mount Street, Manchester, M2 3NN from 9.30am-2pm.
Please contact us on [email protected] to book.