What I think the article adds to the current climate conversation is that, even when we're talking about the Green New Deal and massive renewable energy projects, we're actually thinking too narrowly about the impacts climate change will have on people's lives and, perhaps, overinvesting in cutting emissions as a result.
As a bunch of people have already said--this does not mean cutting emissions is pointless. But it does mean that strengthening the social fabric of our communities, which will be essential if we want to prevent the wholesale collapse of society, is just as important. And while limiting emissions sufficiently to slow the rising climate is largely outside of any individual's circle of control, taking small steps to building stronger communities is within everyone's grasp and not only makes the world more climate-resilient in the future, it make the world a better place right now.
Right now, anyone can commit to:
- checking in on their neighbors in extreme heat or other bad weather
- donating blood and supplies to organizations that respond to natural disasters
- supporting local agriculture / growing a garden
- donating coats and other cold weather clothes to a domestic violence or homeless shelter
To put it another way, we need to come to grips with the fact that life is probably going to get harder rather than easier, particularly for those who are vulnerable and marginalized already. What keeps people going in hard times are strong social bonds -- communities look out for each other, and individuals participate because they trust that if they fall on hard times, others will help them. We should take opportunities now to care for those who are vulnerable, both individually and by building strong institutions. Because, sooner than we think, we will all be more vulnerable.