Older adults are both impacted by and active in working for global climate justice. Older people can have a powerful voice when calling for change and supporting mitigation and adaptation activities. Many older people have the experience to know what communities will face if the climate crisis is not adequately addressed. They have directly felt the consequences of climate change in their daily lives and have witnessed significant changes on the planet in their lifetimes. They know the impact that continued climate change will have on their families and their communities. Two-thirds of the world’s older people also live in low- and middle-income countries where there is a higher risk of climate-related disasters – like floods, hurricanes, and tropical storms – and the impact of such disasters often disproportionately hits older people.
An inclusive, intergenerational response is the only way to address the climate crisis that will define the lives of people of every age over the next century. Leadership on climate action must adapt and prepare for radically different demographics in the world. By 2030, there will be more people over the age of 60 than under 10 years of age. Adapting and preparing for the future of an aging planet under threat is all our responsibility.
To strengthen the fight against the climate crisis, HelpAge USA is calling for all with the power to do so – be it local and national governments, civil society, non-governmental organizations, and the broader environmental movement – to work with older people to:
• Amplify their voices when demanding action and holding leaders accountable at the local and national levels.
• Ensure that community climate mitigation and adaptation initiatives engage, support, and involve them.
• Guarantee their rights and agency are recognized and respected in the fight against the climate crisis and dispel ageist perceptions that marginalize their role.
• Ensure that they can learn and be informed about the climate crisis and its consequences.
“Crop production that is healthy, organic and sustainable and which respects the land and natural resources is part of the traditions and knowledge of older people and has a role to play in protecting the environment.” Karina Leon, Bolivia
HelpAge USA is a non-profit that sees a world in which the contributions of older people are recognized, and there is no age limit on the opportunity for a healthy, safe, and secure life.
HelpAge USA champions the dignity and potential of older people around the world. We work with HelpAge Global Network partners in over 80 countries to provide disaster assistance. Facilitate health care. Help end discrimination and violence. Develop pathways to income security. And we conduct research and advocate for the inclusion of older people in policies and programs that typically overlook them.
All contributions will support HelpAge USA’s general purposes and special projects as HelpAge USA determines from time to time. HelpAge USA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization (EIN/tax ID number: 271071179). Your donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
