This year, Europe faced ten days of extreme heat that resulted in approximately 2,300 deaths, severe flooding on the New South Wales coast left over 48,000 people stranded, and wildfires in Los Angeles destroyed at least 16,000 homes and other buildings. These events underscore what climate scientists have long warned: climate-related extremes are becoming more frequent and intense.
The announcement comes as experts emphasize the need for climate-resilient housing. Poor housing conditions can exacerbate our vulnerability to climate change, making it crucial that our homes protect us from heatwaves, floods, and wildfires while keeping out air pollutants. The housing system must also ensure affordability and security.
The Intersection of Housing and Health
Housing and health are inextricably linked, and a new paper published in the Lancet Public Health highlights several ways climate change affects our homes and, consequently, our health. On a fundamental level, housing provides shelter from the elements. However, resilient housing plays a critical role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
Climate change can lead to a deterioration in indoor conditions. Extreme temperatures can degrade building materials, leading to the release of pollutants. Particulate matter from bushfire smoke can infiltrate indoor environments, contributing to poor air quality. Moreover, extreme heat can make indoor temperatures unbearable.
Structural Risks and Health Implications
Meanwhile, floods, storms, and cyclones can cause structural and water damage to homes, exposing occupants to toxins from contaminated water and increasing the risk of allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and infectious diseases.
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Climate Change and Housing Security
The risks associated with climate change also influence housing security and affordability. Housing insecurity and unaffordability are significant predictors of poor mental health, and climate change exacerbates these issues. Climate-related disasters increase housing costs and general living expenses, with residents facing maintenance and repair costs alongside mortgages and rent.
Increasing extreme weather events push insurance premiums higher, further straining housing affordability. Extreme temperatures elevate the risk of energy poverty, affecting both physical and mental health.
Forced Relocation and Social Impacts
Climate-related disasters can drive forced relocation, impacting health and wellbeing through family disruption, income loss, social disconnection, and reduced service access. Notably, climate change reduces affordable housing supply, with lower-income renters struggling to compete for remaining stock.
The effects of climate change on housing are inequitable, disproportionately affecting less advantaged groups.
When areas with low climate risk become more desirable, housing costs can rise, displacing low-income households to higher-risk areas. This phenomenon, known as climate “gentrification,” has been observed in countries like the United States and Denmark.
What Does Climate-Resilient Housing Look Like?
Housing must protect people from growing climate risks. Physically, this means homes must withstand intense weather, be energy-efficient, and have good thermal performance for ventilation and climate control. Climate-resilient housing should include:
- Well-constructed foundations, walls, and roofs
- Ventilation and insulation
- Energy-efficient cooling and heating
- Exterior shading and roof reflectivity
- Fire- and heat-resistant building materials
Building codes must adapt to the changing climate, and existing housing may need upgrades. Recent updates to the National Construction Code have raised energy efficiency and thermal performance standards, reflecting progress.
Policy and Social Considerations
Stronger tenant protection policies are needed, as rental housing often lacks quality yet houses vulnerable populations. Minimum standards for rental housing must be climate resilient. However, climate-resilient housing must also be affordable, secure, and provide access to work, education, and social connections.
Public discussions often focus on meeting housing supply targets, but it’s essential to ensure people are housed well to thrive. As climate change continues to impact our lives, the need for resilient, equitable housing solutions becomes increasingly urgent.
