The Impact of Climate Change on the Queer Community

The Queer community are not just disproportionately affected by climate change but as a group, are also particularly involved in the movement. On the pride flag, the physical symbol of the queer community, the green stripe represents nature (1). 

Queer communities and climate vulnerability

Like other marginalised groups, the LGBTQ+ community faces an increased risk of threats, due to systemic economic and social inequalities. Gay, lesbian, and transgender people are much more likely to be displaced in the year following a natural disaster compared to their cis-het counterparts (2). Additionally, nations that are worst affected by climate change like Syria and Somalia are places which have criminalised same-sex relations (3). 

Barriers to relief and support in climate related disasters

On top of an already damaging susceptibility to impacts from climate change, the queer community also faces barriers to aid and recovery. In the Pacific Island of Tonga, a region experiencing increased hurricane activity, emergency shelters are often run by religious organisations. Difficulties in disaster relief were also seen in Haiti, in 2010, where gay and bisexual men were encouraged to behave in a more ‘masculine’ way in order to avoid harassment or being rebuffed from necessary services (4). 

The Queer role in Climate Action

We need to remember that the climate crisis is not just an environmental threat but that it is also an issue of social justice. As a marginalised group, the queer community understands the need for collective action and the impacts of systemic oppression. 

Organisations like ‘OUT’ for Sustainability, where LGBTQ activists work to address the climate crisis, show the need for intersectionality in environmental and social issues (5).

What does the future look like?

Policy makers, climatologists and health practitioners all need to come together to provide necessary support and reduce the disparity in disaster preparedness and response for the queer community. 

Stay involved with sustainability efforts and download the UK ZERO APP where you can track clean energy usage in the UK, in real time. As well as learn ways you can reduce your impact on the environment.