Heatwaves Threaten Livelihoods of Pacific Islanders with Disabilities

We’ve partnered with disabled filmmakers globally to document how climate change is impacting people with disabilities in their communities. “The Hottest Decade” was shot by Sa Utailesolo, with sound check, translations, and English voiceovers by Ari Hazelman. It was edited by Jody Santos.

As the world experiences the hottest decade in recorded history, heatwaves are having a profound impact on people with disabilities in the Pacific. These extreme temperatures aggravate health conditions and make it dangerous for individuals to go outside, further affecting their ability to work. For Iulai Soāfa Gale, a farmer from Apia, Samoa, the rising heat has worsened his spinal cord injury symptoms, including bed sores, and drained his energy, leaving him unable to replant crops or sell enough at the market to earn a living. “It has been difficult to work outside for long periods,” he says. “I have lost valuable time in replanting the seedlings.” Toafa’s story underscores the need for inclusive responses to extreme heat to protect the livelihoods and health of people with disabilities.

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