The Senator George J. Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions introduced Jessica Scott, a guest speaker, to their Sustainability Talks series on March 21. Scott is a senior climate adviser for the Governors Office of Policy Innovation and the Future. Scott led her talk, Equity and Environmental Justice – Opportunities for the State of Maine. Scott has been working to ensure climate and environmental justice for all Maineans. Scott created programs to help achieve climate goals such as clean transportation, natural and productive lands, and equity and justice.
Maine has a lot to be vulnerable to climate change. Maine residents are more vulnerable to climate change because of discrimination, isolation, and underrepresentation. Maine is now one of many frontline communities that are facing the worst and most severe impacts of climate change. These communities are often made up of people of color, low-income individuals, and communities that are rural or geographically isolated. They may be the most vulnerable to climate change.
I think it’s important to understand that different people experience different types of vulnerability throughout their lives, said Scott. Vulnerability does not always occur. Not all people who are experiencing interrelated challenges experience the same specific hazards. We take this equitable and just approach to climate action which seeks to increase climate resources and resiliency, and those in other communities who are experiencing the first and worst impacts of climate change … are [the]Most vulnerable to climate change
Scott then spoke about equity and the possible paths of action. Equitable climate action would increase resources for those communities that are marginalized and have to support them when they are facing socio-economic disadvantages. These resources could improve the overall wellbeing of citizens and address the root causes for inequality by ensuring that all climate action benefits.
Climate equity in Maine is something that is essential to acknowledge. Equal distribution of resources is not enough. An equitable system should provide more resources for the marginalized and disadvantaged communities. As climate change has disproportionately affected people of color and those with low incomes, it is important to have an equitable system. Policies should not increase inequality and should not be used to alleviate existing burdens.
This means that Maine is on the verge of major change. People should embrace electric transport, modernize buildings and create new jobs. They should also protect the environment and working lands by increasing carbon sequestration and investing in climate-ready infrastructure. This will reduce carbon emissions and engage people and communities in future opportunities.
