Scientists stress on preventive strategies to fight eco migrations

A new study by scientists has stressed on preventive strategies to minimize the impact of environmental migrations due to climate change.

Berlin, Nov 27 : A new study by scientists has stressed on preventive strategies to minimize the impact of environmental migrations due to climate change.

According to the study, climate change is likely to intensify droughts, storms and floods, which will undoubtedly lead to environmental migrations and potential conflicts in the areas migrated to.

The study also points to the fact that people facing environmental disasters have no choice but to leave the affected area.

The larger the migration and the shorter the period over which it occurs, the harder it is to absorb the migrants, raising the likelihood of conflict. For instance, migrants clash over jobs, resources and way of life, and violent interactions such as theft, beating, armed scuffles, seizure of resources and property, murders and insurgencies are likely.

According to Rafael Reuveny from Indiana University in the US, the impact of environmental migrations, which can cause violent conflict in areas receiving migrants, has to be minimzed.

"Developed countries would be wise to invest in preventive strategies both at home and in developing countries, since climate change is expected to degrade the environment considerably this century," said Reuveny.

Through the analysis of three case studies, Reuveny has come to the conclusion that although climate change can spur large population movements, public policy can alleviate the pressures of ecomigration.

"Indeed, if a country can invest in areas affected by environmental problems, the scope of ecomigration can be reduced and transitions can be smoother as more people are likely to return to the area," he said.

"Minimizing climate change-induced migration and violent conflict in receiving areas requires an engineered economic slowdown in the developed countries, and population stabilization and economic growth in developing countries financed by the developed countries," Springer quoted Reuveny as saying.

ANI