The Overlooked Resilience of Disabled Communities
New Zealand, like many countries, is grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change. From extreme rainfall to marine heatwaves, the nation is experiencing a range of environmental challenges. But amidst these crises, a critical aspect often goes unnoticed: the heightened vulnerability of disabled individuals.
The 2023 Auckland floods serve as a stark reminder of this disparity. The emergency response, heavily criticized for its shortcomings, left disabled people struggling to access the support they desperately needed. This incident, and others like it, highlight a systemic issue—one that demands immediate attention and a shift in perspective.
In my research, I discovered a recurring theme: disabled individuals are not just victims of climate change; they are experts in adaptation, possessing invaluable knowledge gained from navigating an often-inaccessible world. Their experiences offer a unique lens through which we can better understand and address climate-related challenges.
However, a glaring oversight persists in climate policy and adaptation planning. A review of central government documents reveals a mere 29 out of 123 mention disability, with only seven engaging in substantial discussion. This pattern is not unique to New Zealand; globally, only 1% of adaptation initiatives explicitly consider disabled people.
This neglect is particularly concerning given the existing barriers faced by disabled individuals in Aotearoa. They are more likely to face employment challenges, inadequate housing, and financial hardships. These inequities exacerbate their vulnerability to climate impacts, leaving them with fewer resources to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
The intersection of disability with other forms of marginalization further compounds these challenges. As one insightful participant in my research noted, 'the deck is stacked against people'. This statement encapsulates the reality for many disabled individuals, especially those from Māori, Pacific, migrant, and refugee communities.
Despite these obstacles, disabled people are eager to contribute to climate adaptation. They want to be heard and, more importantly, to lead. Their lived experiences provide a wealth of knowledge that can inform and enhance our resilience strategies.
For instance, in Auckland, the Disability Led Climate Adaptation pilot has funded innovative projects, such as an accessible adaptation app and educational films by tāngata whaikaha Māori. These initiatives demonstrate the power of inclusive, community-led solutions. Similarly, in Christchurch and Dunedin, the Disabled Person's Assembly has collaborated with Civil Defence and emergency services to improve disability-informed preparedness.
These examples underscore the importance of recognizing and valuing the expertise of disabled communities. Their insights can significantly contribute to building a more adaptive, creative, and inclusive future. By involving them as key stakeholders and agents of change, we can address the systemic barriers that have long marginalized them.
In conclusion, the resilience of disabled communities is a powerful yet overlooked resource in our fight against climate change. By embracing their expertise and ensuring their active participation, we can not only mitigate the disproportionate risks they face but also harness their unique abilities to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
