ATL Rising: Building resilience in the face of extreme heat

In 2023, Atlanta had its second-hottest year in almost a century. Largely driven by climate change, Atlanta and other cities across the country are experiencing extreme heat events that come more frequently, more intensely, and more dangerously. Heat-related deaths have been increasing year-over-year, with over 2,300 recorded in 2023-a 161% increase from 2010. It’s historically disinvested communities that feel the heat the most, thanks to the effects of redlining and residential segregation, institutional disinvestment, and widespread health disparities. In areas of southern Atlanta, where much of the city’s Black population is concentrated, that manifests as high asthma rates, unaffordable energy bills, and an unbearable heat island effect amplified by pavement and a lack of green space.
The Partnership for Southern Equity and Smart Growth America learned from community residents, advocates, thought leaders, and policy leaders about their lived experiences with extreme heat and their hopes for a safe, prosperous, and healthy Atlanta. This video highlights community voices on the need for policy and advocacy strategies that create safer and more accessible infrastructure.
This video was produced by ‪@Ecodeo‬.