Climate change or poverty - what according to you is a more grave issue? Experts believe that one issue cannot be dealt without addressing the other. While climate change has a direct impact on the poor, poverty in turn poses hindrance in combating the effects of climate change. Deforestation and flooding is causing maximum damage to the people in developing nations. It is also affecting the capacity of low income groups to deal with shortage of food and water.

Since the beginning of the century, global temperature has increased by .74 degree Celsius due to the greenhouse gas emission across the world. Climate experts are predicting a further increase of 2 degrees in the temperature if the emission is not reduced in this century. Due to the increase in frequency of natural disasters, people from underdeveloped countries are migrating for their livelihood. Climate change is posing several problems in the reduction of poverty across the world. Poor nations lack the resources to fight such challenges and their heavy dependence on natural resources makes them more vulnerable to natural disasters.

The present need is to adapt climate change into efforts related to poverty eradication. Rich countries should be encouraged to make sustainable investments in poor nations. By giving a fair share of climate adaptation cost to developing nations, rich countries can help them alleviate pressure on water, forest and land. If investments are made for the development of countries such as India and Africa, these nations will also be able to extend their support to combat pressing issues such as global warming and carbon footprint. Experts are of view that climate change is out there and it will continue to create havoc on poor nations. If the present condition exists, climate change will cause more shortage of drinking water and food in the coming years. This will result in negative effects on the health of poor people and a large part of foreign investment will have to be directed towards health care services instead of projects related to climate change reduction.

Summary:

Climate change is having adverse effects on poor countries, causing shortage of water, food, sanitation and health care services.