Hunger Awareness Month: Thinking about global warming and U.S. hunger on World Environment Day

Every year on June 5, over 100 countries celebrate World Environment Day – what the United Nations Environment Programme calls “the largest day of global action on the planet”. Since 1972, UNEP has used this day to stimulate worldwide awareness of environmental issues and encourage political action.

This year’s theme is “Raise your voice, not the sea level” and will focus, among other things, on rising sea levels caused by global warming.

As sea levels rise, record numbers of people will become displaced – forced to move from areas along the coast that will become submerged. These include Florida, New York City, and Louisiana, which is predicted to have the highest rates of sea level rise in the world.

What does rising sea levels and climate change have to do with hunger in Allegheny County?

Rising sea levels are just one of the effects of global warming. The others include more severe storms and extreme weather, drought, and fresh water shortages.

Crop growth and food production will be affected all over the world, and with decreased supplies and access to food, the cost of food will rise.

Who will suffer the most? Low-income and already hungry people in the U.S. and all over the world.

The good news is that though a new report shows climate change is accelerating, it’s not too late – there is still time to stop the worst of it. You can be a part of the solution.

Fun Fact:

Every World Environment Day is hosted by a particular country – this year it’s Barbados. In 2010, every continent had regional hosts and North America’s was….Pittsburgh!

Know of any local World Environment day activities going on today? Leave them in the comments section below.