Climate change hits rivers and water first and hardest, impacting all communities but particularly historically marginalized communities who, as a result of generations of discrimination, are often located in floodplains, drained wetlands, or adjacent to sewage outfalls. The impacts of climate change exacerbate the other injustices that these communities face and will only grow worse over time. It’s important that when we talk about climate change, it isn’t just about charts and numbers but also environmental justice.

American Rivers believes everyone should have clean water and a healthy river. A significant portion of our nation’s drinking water comes from rivers, and we must do more to protect them from the impacts of climate change. Across the country, communities are experiencing shifts and variability in weather and climate such as increased droughts, more severe floods and serious water quality issues from rising water temperatures and algal blooms. While all communities feel the impacts of climate change, historically marginalized communities often experience the brunt of the challenges.

Tackling the issues of climate justice and climate change is a complicated and daunting task. But there are solutions to help communities adapt to a changing climate. At the national, state and local levels communities and stakeholders are coming together to identify innovative and collaborative solutions. In the face of many challenges, there is much to be hopeful for and inspired by.

Join us today on Episode 18 of We Are Rivers as we hear from Dr. Robert Bullard and Chris Williams who discuss climate change and climate justice, and what it means for people, rivers and the environment.

Photo Credit: Liz Bell, ednc.org

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