The areas victimized by racist federal housing policies in the 1930s are now among the most vulnerable to the severe impacts of climate change, according to a landmark study released in January. And although the Fair Housing Act of 1968 banned redlining and housing discrimination in general, three out of four redlined communities rated “hazardous” 80 years ago are struggling economically today.
Redlining & Climate Change: A Deadly Combination
Historic HOLC "redlining" map superimposed over the current-day impervious surface map of Elizabeth, New Jersey. The red- and yellow-outlined areas—considered too risky for home loans—align with the heavily paved areas. NOTE: The HOLC only drew lines around residential areas, so many of the most heavily paved areas are not within HOLC boundaries, as they are commercial or industrial rather than residential.