Examining the effects of long-term historical redlining on climate risks

This study investigates the long-term impacts of historical redlining on vulnerability to climate-induced hazards, including floods, heat, and wind, across racially and socioeconomically diverse neighborhoods. Utilizing a comprehensive dataset and employing ANOVA and Generalized Additive Models (GAM), the research identifies significant disparities in future disaster risk exposure linked to historical redlining practices. The findings reveal that redlined areas, characterized by lower investment and inadequate infrastructure, will disproportionately bear higher risks of climate hazards in the future. This study uniquely contributes to the discourse on urban inequality and environmental justice by elucidating the complex interplay between socio-economic factors, such as racial demographics and economic status, and increased vulnerability to environmental hazards. Despite the robust analysis, the study acknowledges limitations, such as modest adjusted R-squared values and the scope of data, suggesting further research to integrate more nuanced socio-economic variables. This research underscores the necessity for targeted urban planning and policy interventions aimed at mitigating future risks and enhancing resilience in historically marginalized communities.