Rain. Floods. Earthquakes. We have recently seen a barrage of suffering at the hands of natural disasters. A recent New York Times article explored the relationships between these extreme weather patterns and climate change. A changing global climate is having more immediate detrimental consequences for both human communities and the countless animals upon which humans depend for sustenance, economic growth and stability, and social and quality of life development.
Whether we rely on them for companionship, food, revenue, or to help balance our ecosystems, or whether we appreciate them for their inherent value to our planet, animals play an important role in our lives. Unfortunately, in the aftermath of floods, earthquakes, weather-related oil spills and other catastrophes, animals are often left to fend for themselves, resulting in extreme suffering or death.
As scientists continue to research this correlation and we witness an influx of disasters, one thing is certain -- long- and short-term climate change mitigation is undeniably important for animals and people, and it is imperative that disaster plans are put in place for both. As climate change progresses, the need for decision-makers to allot resources and capacity to animal and human emergency relief efforts is crucial. Governments should work with local communities to include animals in climate change-related event planning and should allocate capacity to prepare for and respond to animals' needs prior to, during, and following climate change related events.
A recent IFAW report, Unnatural Disasters: The Impacts of Climate-related Emergencies on Wildlife, Livestock, and Companion Animals, offers a comprehensive look at the immediate impacts of climate change on wildlife, livestock, and companion animals and offers recommendations for easing the effects on these creatures.
It's been more than six months since the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Along with crucial aide being delivered to human victims of the disaster, thousands of animals in the hardest-hit areas of the country have been rescued. Local veterinarians have been trained and improved their capacity for animal care into the future. However, more still needs to be done and the long-term effects on domestic animals, livestock and wildlife are still being determined.
From the floods in Pakistan to the earthquake in Haiti, we all feel a great sense of tragedy when we witness disasters. We must also have the sense to take action, to plan, to prepare, and to ensure that we are equipped to mitigate the immediate impacts of these catastrophic events on both people and animals.
Jeffrey Flocken is the D.C. Office Director for the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).