The women at the forefront of the climate battle - BBC 100 Women, BBC World Service

Summary

The video script explores the impact of climate change on coastal communities, particularly in Ghana and Miami's Little Haiti, where rising sea levels threaten livelihoods and homes. It highlights the struggle of fishing communities in Ghana, the fear of displacement due to gentrification in Little Haiti, and the importance of community resilience. The narrative also includes the story of Zandile Ndhlovu, South Africa's first black female free diving instructor, who works to engage black communities in ocean conservation, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect the oceans.

Takeaways

• 🌊 The rising sea levels are causing significant erosion and forcing communities to relocate, as seen in the Ghanaian fishing village of Fuveme.
• 💰 Climate change and gentrification are intertwined, with communities like Little Haiti in Miami facing displacement due to a combination of environmental and economic pressures.
• 🐟 Artisanal fishing, a major source of livelihood in Ghana, is threatened by climate change, with fish becoming scarcer and coastal communities' incomes decreasing.
• 🏠 The destruction of homes and infrastructure due to tidal waves has led to the abandonment of entire villages, as experienced by the people of Fuveme.
• 👩‍💼 Women in Ghana, who are heavily involved in fishing and fish processing, are particularly affected by the decline in fish stocks and are seeking alternative livelihoods.
• 🌐 The narrative of 'black people don't swim' and historical racial tensions have created a disconnect between black communities and the ocean in places like South Africa.
• 🌱 NGOs are stepping in to provide alternative skills training for women in fishing communities, but many still prefer their traditional roles despite the challenges.
• 🏙️ The potential submersion of Miami's coastal properties due to rising sea levels highlights the global impact of climate change on urban environments.
• 🌱 The concept of 'climate gentrification' is discussed, where climate change impacts lead to increased property values in higher elevation areas, displacing lower-income residents.
• 🌍 The script emphasizes the need for global participation in ocean conservation, challenging the perception that it is only a concern for certain demographics.
• 📈 The script showcases individual and community resilience in the face of climate change, with examples of activism and efforts to build a more sustainable future.

Q & A

What is the main concern of the people living in Little Haiti regarding climate change?

The main concern is the threat of rising sea levels due to climate change, which could lead to the displacement of residents and the gentrification of the area.

How does the rising sea level affect the fishing communities in Ghana?

Rising sea levels are causing erosion, flooding homes, and reducing fish populations, which directly impacts the livelihoods of fishing communities like those in Agorkedzi and Fuveme.

What was the situation of Fuveme in 2016 compared to 2023?

In 2016, Fuveme was a functioning community with a classroom and homes. By 2023, it had been reduced to a scene of no activity due to increasing tidal waves and residents had to abandon their homes.

How does climate change contribute to the phenomenon of 'climate gentrification' in Little Haiti?

Climate change contributes to climate gentrification by making areas like Little Haiti more desirable due to their higher elevation, leading to increased property values and the displacement of lower-income residents.

What is the role of NGOs in supporting women in the fishing communities of Ghana?

NGOs provide opportunities for women to learn new skills such as crop farming and handicrafts, which can help diversify their income sources in the face of declining fish populations due to climate change.

What is the significance of the local fishmongers' association led by Esi Buobasa?

The association provides financial support to its members, especially in times of crisis, and helps them maintain their livelihood as fishmongers despite the challenges posed by climate change.

How does the script describe the historical relationship between black South Africans and the ocean?

The script describes a history of exclusion and fear, with narratives that discouraged black South Africans from engaging with the ocean, leading to a lack of connection and understanding of marine conservation.

What is Zandile Ndhlovu's approach to promoting ocean conservation among black South African communities?

Zandile Ndhlovu, known as The Black Mermaid, is focused on creating safe spaces and opportunities for black South African youth to connect with the ocean, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for its protection.

What is the purpose of the 'Ocean Hub' that Zandile and the Langa community are planning?

The 'Ocean Hub' is intended to be a space for children to learn about and connect with the ocean, promoting ocean conservation and providing a recreational facility in an area that lacks such spaces.

How does the script illustrate the broader implications of climate change on vulnerable communities?

The script illustrates the broader implications of climate change by showing how it affects housing, livelihoods, and cultural identities in communities like Little Haiti and fishing villages in Ghana, leading to displacement and a struggle for survival.

What is the role of investment in the context of climate gentrification in Little Haiti?

Investment plays a dual role in climate gentrification in Little Haiti. It is seen as necessary for the area's development but also contributes to rising property values and the displacement of long-time residents.