Pixels and Perspectives: Vizzuality’s Journey Through Climate Inequality.
In today’s world, climate inequality is an issue that demands our attention. At Vizzuality, we’re dedicated to ensuring a sustainable and just future where equality is at the core. Our mission is to empower individuals with the tools they need to make informed decisions and take action against climate change and inequality.
This journey led us to publish Climate Inequality, a microsite that vividly illustrates that climate change is interwoven with social inequality. While Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) are the least responsible for global carbon emissions, some regions are hardest hit by shifting weather patterns, leaving already vulnerable populations at higher risk of increased food insecurity, water shortages and negative health outcomes. Approximately 3.3 to 3.6 billion people live in areas highly vulnerable to climate impacts yet are the least responsible for the crisis.
As we engage in these crucial discussions and closely monitor these crises, large parts of Southeast Asia, sweltering heat waves have reached a point challenging human survivability. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), record temperatures have recently been documented in India, with the more prolonged and extreme temperatures becoming increasingly frequent. During 2023, soaring temperatures well above 40 degrees Celsius have been registered in Northern India, causing a dramatic situation, especially for the most vulnerable.
Understanding Climate Inequality
Climate inequality is a multifaceted concept rooted in the unequal distribution of climate change impacts. It’s not solely about who contributes the most to carbon emissions, but rather who bears the greatest burden of its consequences. This inequality exists not only on a global scale but within countries, where marginalized groups often suffer the most from extreme weather events. Historical and socio-economic factors further amplify these disparities.
For instance, consider India, where a significant portion of the population belongs to historically marginalized groups. Here, many individuals face economic hardships, struggling to meet their daily needs and encountering difficulties in accessing education and basic infrastructure. When climate change enters the equation, it becomes an additional, daunting stressor.
A stark example can be seen in Adivasi and Dalit communities in Northern India, where women disproportionately shoulder the burden of climate impacts driven by historical, social, and economic discrimination. In these communities, women often find themselves tasked with outdoor physically demanding chores, such as fetching water for their families. These responsibilities compound pre-existing inequalities.
As reported by The New Humanitarian, young women from low-caste backgrounds who are tasked with water runs are less likely to participate in regular school hours compared to their caste-dominant peers who have access to water wells and motor pumps at home. These water runs entail walking several times a day over prolonged distances, often under the scorching sun. As a result, some individuals might limit their water intake to avoid these exhausting treks, leading to adverse health outcomes. These disparities perpetuate a system in which already vulnerable groups face increasing hurdles in their pursuit of social and economic progress.
To address these pressing climate impacts, data products used for risk assessment, planning and decision-making are increasingly available. Thanks to the advancements in data and technology, more people can access this critical information, bridging the gap between communities and decision-makers.
Taking the example illustrated above, India has developed Heat Action Plans to mitigate the effects of prolonged heat waves. Still, according to experts, serious data gaps need to be addressed. Notably, as highlighted in the World Weather Attribution group report (2023), a primary challenge in designing comprehensive interventions is the incorporation of differentiated vulnerability assessments that consider factors such as gender, economic status, and occupation.
This is just one of the very evident examples demonstrating the urgent need to infuse a social dimension into environmental and climate analysis. Having tools that help address climate change while incorporating a holistic perspective into analysis is a way to address these issues with a true commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The Role of Technology in Climate Inequality
In today’s digital world, technology has a big role to play in different aspects of climate action. When used right, it can help fight the effects of climate change and bridge the gap between different groups in society.
Think of it like this: there’s a digital divide, where some people have more access to technology than others, especially in less developed areas. But “technological opportunities” can also offer solutions to these disparities.
At Vizzuality, we’re lucky to be at the forefront of these opportunities. We transform complex satellite imagery and vast data into comprehensible tools anyone can access and utilize. Making environmental and social data universally understandable is at the heart of what we do. It helps people see the real picture of climate change and inequality. And when they see it, they can act on it.
These visual stories don’t just inform; they inspire, ensuring that even the most marginalized voices are amplified. They make sure that those who are often overlooked get heard and supported. And that those with the power to make decisions get to it.
Dealing with these complex issues and technology on a daily basis, we recognize the importance of systemic solutions. Climate change and inequality are systemic issues demanding systemic technological responses. This means fostering openness in technology to eliminate barriers to scale and innovation. It’s about disseminating information as widely as possible and simplifying the complexities of these subjects into actionable insights.
As we move forward, it’s important to remember that technology and people working together can make a big difference. By using the tools we have and working together, we can create a future where everyone is treated fairly and our planet is taken care of.
One of Vizzuality’s most recognizable contributions is Global Forest Watch. Using satellite imagery, this platform empowers communities to monitor and protect their forests. Open data initiatives like this challenge the data access divide. In a different context, the Half-Earth Project Map simplifies complex ecological data, providing invaluable guidance for conservation efforts. Marxan plays a vital role in conservation planning, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity while also considering socio-economic factors.
Beyond our own work, countless other initiatives are harnessing technology for good. There are apps that help consumers make sustainable choices, platforms that crowdsource data on pollution, and even virtual reality experiences that let people step into the shoes of those facing the brunt of climate change. These tools and platforms, big and small, show that when technology, passion, and knowledge come together, the possibilities for positive change are endless.
Challenges and Limitations
While technology offers promising solutions to address climate inequality, it’s not without its challenges and limitations. One of the primary concerns is the issue of “data inequalities.” Just as wealth and resources are unevenly distributed globally, so is access to and understanding of data. This disparity can skew our perception of climate inequality, as the voices of those with less access to technology and data might go unheard.
“Data poverty” further compounds this issue. When communities or individuals lack access to relevant and timely data, they’re at a disadvantage. This absence of data can hinder their ability to make informed decisions, advocate for their rights, or access resources and opportunities. For instance, a community without data on rising sea levels might not be prepared for flooding, or a farmer without access to climate data might not know the best crops to plant for changing weather patterns.
Moreover, while technology can visualize and communicate data, it can’t always capture the nuances and lived experiences of individuals facing climate inequality. Relying solely on technology without considering these human aspects can lead to oversimplified solutions that might not address the root causes of the problem.
In essence, while technology is a powerful tool in the fight against climate inequality, it’s essential to be aware of its limitations and ensure that it complements, rather than replaces, ground-level insights and experiences.
Bridging the Gap for a Sustainable Tomorrow
In our journey through the intricate landscape of climate inequality, it’s evident that the challenges are multifaceted, but so are the solutions. Technology, while a powerful ally, is just one piece of the puzzle. The stories, experiences, and voices of those most affected by climate change are key in shaping effective and inclusive solutions. As we look to the future, the role of data and technology will undoubtedly grow, but it’s the human touch, understanding, and collaboration that will drive real and inclusive change.
At Vizzuality, we don’t just see ourselves as service providers; we see ourselves as partners in a global endeavor. Our commitment extends to innovating, learning, and working side by side with communities, organizations, and individuals.
The fight against climate inequality demands collective effort and awareness. To delve deeper into this pressing issue, we invite you to explore Vizzuality’s Climate inequality site. Be part of this conversation and amplify the message. Take action in your own life and community, advocating for sustainability, educating others, and making eco-conscious choices. Together, we can forge a more equitable and sustainable future.
Join us in making a difference.
Thank you to the authors of this blog Ane Lizariturry and Susana Romao. And to the wider team who worked on this initiative:
- Alvaro Leal, Frontend Developer;
- Andreia Ribeiro, Designer;
- Ane Lizariturry, Business Development;
- Bárbara Chaves, Frontend developer;
- Jacinta Hamley, Communications & Digital Content Specialist;
- Sergio Estella, Chief Design Officer,
- Sofía Aldabet, Scientist;
- Susana Romao, Project Portfolio & Partnerships
