New Survey Reveals Rising Climate Anxiety Among Black Baltimore Residents: What You Need to Know

When Sarah Broadwater began her rose garden in East Baltimore over 30 years ago, she wanted to add beauty to her neighborhood. Today, at 89, she still cares for that garden, which now symbolizes resilience in the face of climate change.

Broadwater believes action is necessary. “We’re not going to stop climate change, but we need to try to control it,” she says.

A recent survey from Johns Hopkins University reveals that many in the Baltimore area share her fears. About 73% of residents worry climate change may harm them personally. However, the concerns are more pronounced among Black residents. Approximately 80% of Black respondents expressed worry about the impacts of climate change, compared to 67% of white residents.

Broadwater also sees local environmental issues, like litter and childhood asthma rates, and notices shifts in nature, such as trees budding earlier each spring. These changes highlight the urgency she feels about climate change.

The survey, conducted by Johns Hopkins’ 21st Century Cities Initiative, included 1,352 residents from Baltimore City and Baltimore County. It has a margin of error of 4.2%. The results show that conversations about climate action often overlook the voices of those who are most affected, particularly in communities of color.

Mac McComas, a project manager, pointed out that while wealthy white individuals often lead discussions on climate initiatives, this focus can obscure the realities faced by vulnerable communities. He emphasized the need for a broader understanding of how climate change impacts everyone.

Kelly Cross, president of the Old Goucher Community Association, is actively making his neighborhood more resilient. He works on projects to manage rainfall and plant trees to help combat summer heat. Cross believes that many Black Baltimoreans connect climate change to their daily lives rather than to abstract debates. Vulnerable neighborhoods are often hit hardest by extreme weather events, increasing the risk of living in areas with flooding and heat-related issues.

The survey’s findings reveal that unlike white residents, concerns about climate change among Black residents increased with income. For example, 91% of Black respondents earning over $110,000 expressed anxiety about climate change, compared to 62% of white respondents in similar income brackets.

Diana Pike, another survey respondent, worries about her children’s future in a warming world. She feels that her peers are often focused on more immediate concerns rather than climate change. “I feel like I’m an anomaly, honestly,” she admits, highlighting a disconnect among her social circle.

Brian Ault, a retired resident, is also concerned. He and his wife attempt to save energy in their home but wish to make bigger investments, like solar panels, to lower their carbon footprint.

McComas stresses the importance of local investments to adapt to climate change. Councilwoman Phylicia Porter agrees, noting that while not everyone discusses climate change in scientific terms, many residents express their worries through everyday observations about rising temperatures.

Jeffrey Barnes, a member of Progressive Maryland, has become more engaged after witnessing environmental injustices that impact his neighborhood. He emphasizes that the facilities near him, which contribute to pollution, are also linked to climate change. Barnes recognizes the uncertainty of what the future holds but believes in addressing these issues proactively.

In a city like Baltimore, where climate change is on many minds, the survey findings highlight the critical need for inclusive discussions and actions that address the real fears of all residents.

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