Climate change, often visualized as melting glaciers and rising sea levels, has a far more insidious impact: it's displacing people from their homes at an alarming rate. This phenomenon, known as climate homelessness, is a growing crisis, particularly in Southern Europe, where extreme weather events and rising temperatures are exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.
The statistics are sobering. Since 2008, a staggering 376 million people have been displaced due to natural disasters, with 36 million internally displaced in 2022 alone. While the term 'climate refugee' lacks a formal definition and is not covered by international refugee law, the reality is undeniable: climate change is forcing people from their homes, creating a new class of displaced individuals.
Southern Europe, with its susceptibility to heat waves, droughts, and wildfires, is particularly vulnerable. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are impacting agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods, pushing vulnerable populations, including those already experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, to the brink.
The European Economic and Social Committee paints a bleak picture of the economic impact of climate change in the EU, particularly in the South. Rising health, food, and electricity costs, coupled with a contraction in labor income, are disproportionately affecting Southern European countries. The poorest households are bearing the brunt of these impacts, facing increased health expenditures and food insecurity. The reference text notes that climate change will cause an increase in average household food expenditure in most EU countries, between 0.74% and 0.81% across different climate change scenarios. The text also mentions that climate-induced health expenditure is projected to rise considerably, with increases between 0.3% under moderate warming and a significant 6.2% under severe warming.
The situation is further complicated by the lack of a clear definition for 'climate refugees' and the absence of legal protections for those displaced by climate-related events. While the EU has expressed concern and taken steps to support vulnerable countries, the lack of a formal recognition of 'climate refugees' leaves many in a precarious legal limbo.
In Greece, organizations like Emfasis Nonprofit are stepping up to address the immediate needs of vulnerable populations during extreme weather events. Their "We Don't Pass By, We Support Communities From Natural Disasters" program provides critical aid to those affected by natural disasters, including those experiencing homelessness. Emfasis' Mobile Support Units, equipped with Rescue Ready Packs, are deployed to disaster-stricken areas, while their social services teams conduct door-to-door needs assessments to ensure targeted and effective assistance.
According to our 11-year experience, the biggest challenges we face in dealing with such disasters are:
Sources:
For this reason, I indicatively mention some of the crucial steps to be taken before, during, and after a natural disaster to protect and support individuals experiencing climate homelessness. These measures emphasize preparedness, inclusivity, and collaboration between various stakeholders.
These recommendations highlight the importance of proactive planning, inclusive communication, and collaborative efforts to protect and support vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness, during and after natural disasters. By implementing these measures, communities can enhance their resilience and ensure that everyone has access to safety and support in times of crisis.
Addressing climate homelessness requires a multifaceted approach. It involves mitigating the impacts of climate change through emissions reductions and adaptation measures, while also providing support and protection for those already displaced. This includes recognizing the unique vulnerabilities of homeless and vulnerably-housed populations and ensuring that they are included in disaster preparedness and response plans
It also necessitates a rethinking of housing policies and urban planning, with a focus on creating resilient and sustainable communities that can withstand the impacts of climate change. This includes investing in energy-efficient housing, promoting green urban planning, and ensuring access to affordable housing for all
The crisis of climate homelessness is a stark reminder of the human cost of climate change. It's a crisis that demands urgent action, not just to mitigate the impacts of climate change, but also to protect the most vulnerable among us. Organizations like Emfasis Nonprofit are providing a lifeline to those in need, but a long-term solution requires a concerted effort from governments, NGOs, and communities to address the root causes of climate change and its devastating consequences. The time to act is now!
From 2019 onwards, this Program, funded by Ydrogios Insurance, focuses on the immediate provision of first aid humanitarian and psychosocial support services to people living in the street or in precarious housing conditions and are affected by extreme weather events and natural disasters.
With the support of Ydrogios Insurance, the two Mobile Support Units of Emfasis, staffed with specially trained drivers-streetworkers and equipped with the necessary tools, move safely and reach every person in need in a timely manner. At the same time, by granting basement space to Ydrogios Headquarters, Emfasis has its own Procurement Management Area since 2022, ensuring the immediate and efficient supply of its beneficiaries with basic necessities (e.g. food, personal hygiene items, etc.) on a daily basis.
The reference point of Emfasis's action under the Programme is the Emergency Relief Initiative for Thessaly, which started just two hours after storm "Daniel" in September 2023. Through the immediate mobilization of the two Mobile Support Units, Emfasis found itself alongside of those affected from the first moment, implementing a coherent action plan that included:
More recently, Emfasis is implementing a corresponding action plan in Northeast Attica and specifically in the Varnava region. So far, total destruction has crossed 53 first homes. In fact, 29 households facing multiple vulnerability (e.g. single-parent families, 3 and 4 year olds, etc.) have already been integrated into Emfasis's network of beneficiaries. According to the records of the Emfasis Social Service, all families have undergone forced relocation. However, not having the necessary resources to extend their temporary housing will soon face homelessness. Emfasis once again aims to support those affected in the long term. In doing so, it aspires to drastically reduce the risk of impending homelessness but also the psychological and social trauma of disaster.
Our impact in Numbers
Source: ydrogios.gr
Enter your email to be the first to hear our news!
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
.svg)
