- Conference
- 2008 National Black Members' Conference
- Date
- 15 September 2007
- Decision
- Carried
Climate change is the single greatest threat to the future development of humanity. It is estimated that by the year 2100, average temperatures will have risen by six degrees, if governments fail to act in the next ten years there will be catastrophic consequences in the future.
The results of such climate change will be higher sea levels, and more frequent floods and droughts, which lead to destruction of workplaces, communities and employment prospects.
Across the world, it is Black people who overwhelmingly bear the brunt of climate change, from floods in Bangladesh to Hurricane Katrina bringing devastation to New Orleans’ African-American population or the growing desertification in sub-Saharan Africa.
Conference believes the West is overwhelmingly responsible for global warming, e.g. 4% of the world’s population live in the United States, yet it is responsible for 34% of global carbon emissions. India has 18% of the world population but is responsible for only 4% of global emissions.
By cutting carbon emissions, it is possible to slow the rate at which human’s impact on climate change.
The government’s announcement of a comprehensive climate change draft bill, the first of its kind in the world, is welcome, but should be strengthened and take effect as soon as possible.
Conference instructs the National Black Members’ Committee (NBMC) to work with the National Executive Council (NEC) to:
1.Support UNISON’s campaign for serious action against climate change, including raising the devastating impact climate change has on Black people globally;
2.Organise a fringe meeting at the National Black Members’ Conference about the impact of climate change on Black communities;
3.Lobby the NEC’s International Committee to raise awareness of growing problems associated with climate change on Black communities.