Nuestro Futuro: Climate Change and U.S. Latinos

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The Latino population in the United States is diverse, rapidly growing, and united by a desire for action on climate change. Latinos care deeply about environmental and public health protections, with support for climate action ranking second only to immigration reform.

There are important ways that Latinos can benefit from action on climate change—due in part to where many Latinos live and work. More than 60 percent of the community lives in states that are among the most affected by severe heat, air pollution, and flooding. Hispanics also make up nearly half of U.S. crop and livestock production workers and more than a quarter of construction workers—outdoor occupations that risk unhealthy heat exposure.

This report examines the unique challenges facing U.S. Latinos, as well as the tremendous opportunities available if we take climate action. Solutions like ramping up wind and solar energy and increased energy efficiency will help to create well-paid jobs, save money by cutting electric bills, and help safeguard future generations of all Americans from catastrophic climate change.

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