How Ignoring the Environment Increases Homelessness

As we pause to celebrate our planet on Earth Day, it's important to remember that while we've all become more aware of how our actions can influence the overall health of the planet, we must also strive to understand how our actions can influence the well-being of populations around the world. Environmentalism and the movement to end homelessness are inextricably linked.

Top researchers have concluded that one of the effects of global warming has been an increase in the intensity of hurricanes. Hurricanes, monsoons, earthquakes and other natural disasters are leading causes of mass displacement the world over. Look at what happened during Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. It's been almost five years and there are still thousands of people who are homeless and suffering. The United Nations has warned that rising sea level could literally leave the Maldives, an island nation of 400,000 residents, under water by 2100. Clearly, ignoring the environment can have devastating effects on peoples' lives.

Climate change has also lead to major shifts in weather patterns over the last several years. We have seen an increase in flood waters alongside major droughts and record high and low temperatures. All of these factors can have a major impact on a person's ability to find and maintain suitable shelter. Flooding, for example, often forces families out of their home. Without adequate resources to resolve the issue, a house can be declared hazardous to live in, especially if toxic mold begins to grow and if the structure of the home is damaged. Many families who once had comfortable homes find themselves homeless long-term.

There are many reasons to reduce our negative impact on the earth. Ending homelessness is one of the best.

Photo credit: U.S. Geological Survey