Suggested Citation:"Executive Summary." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2022. Engaging Socially Vulnerable Communities and Communicating About Climate Change–Related Risks and Hazards. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/26734.
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Executive Summary
Extreme weather events intensified by climate change have been increasing in frequency and severity globally, including in the United States. The physical, social, economic, and health impacts of these events are felt disproportionately by vulnerable communities and are magnified by existing inequities. Decision makers engaged in planning and implementation for climate adaptation at all levels require continued support in communicating about climate risk; developing and promoting adaptation strategies; and helping to build capacities for individuals, families, and communities to respond to these extreme weather events and disasters.
This rapid expert consultation highlights how decision makers can continuously engage with vulnerable communities (Box 1), as well as communicate risk and promote adaptation in the face of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change (Box 2). Implementing this guidance can help decision makers, researchers, and communities work collaboratively, linking analysis, deliberation, and program design to best adapt to climate change–related hazards and risks.
Suggested Citation:"Executive Summary." National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2022. Engaging Socially Vulnerable Communities and Communicating About Climate Change–Related Risks and Hazards. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/26734.
Extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change can compound existing vulnerabilities and inequities experienced by socially vulnerable people including pregnant people, children, low-income populations, Indigenous populations, immigrant groups, the elderly, people with disabilities, vulnerable occupation groups, communities of color, and people with preexisting or chronic medical conditions. Decision makers need to adopt strategies for engaging these communities on an ongoing basis to inform and empower individual decision making, identify and understand local concerns, and provide the necessary resources.
This rapid expert consultation highlights how decision makers can continuously engage with vulnerable communities, as well as communicate risk and promote adaptation in the face of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change. Implementing this guidance can help decision makers, researchers, and communities work collaboratively, linking analysis, deliberation, and program design to best adapt to climate change-related hazards and risks.
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