Government’s climate action decisions will continue to impact minority groups

In the face of an escalating climate emergency, the UK government’s decision to scale back net zero plans and delay crucial climate commitments, is disheartening.  Initial plans for the UK such as insulating homes, banning new petrol and diesel cars and phasing out gas boilers have now been cancelled.

Further, the government has recently approved Rosebank’s oil and gas fields, which experts warn has the potential to emit more CO2 into the atmosphere than the combined emissions of 28 low-income countries.

Charities raise voices in concern

A collective letter from charity leaders asking for reconsideration of recent Government climate action decisions has been reported to have been sent to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Signed by ACEVO, Disability Rights UK, Race Equality Foundation and New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) the letter outlined the effects that the Government’s reluctance to address climate change will have on certain social groups. People from ethnic minority groups, with disabilities and women are some of those who already suffer the most first-hand due to environmental damage.

MCF and Muslim-led charities across the UK have also witnessed how climate change is impacting the world’s most vulnerable. From within the UK with rising food and energy costs, increased homelessness and poor social housing conditions; to internationally with the recent catastrophic flooding in Libya, minority communities are enduring the dangerous and immediate impact of the climate crisis. The government’s decision to weaken its climate commitments and further bind the UK to fossil fuels will only exacerbate their suffering and place further strain on Third Sector organisations.

The impact of the recent Government decision will be far-reaching, threatening the health of our planet, people and the economy.

For charities, it will mean an increase in challenges and demand without the necessary core funding to support needs and build resilience. MCF stands with other charity leaders in asking for immediate action on climate change for the sake of the those within our local and global communities who are already vulnerable.

It is more important than ever that we, as Muslims and stewards of the earth, use our voices to urge the government to rethink its stance and make bolder commitments to transition away from fossil fuels and towards clean, renewable energy. Through this collective effort, we can play a pivotal role in safeguarding our beloved planet for our children and the generations to come.

If your charity organization would like to get involved in raising climate awareness and becoming more sustainable, please get in touch at info@muslimcharitiesforum.org.uk