Environmental change, hunger and hardship in the UK

Environmental issues, like climate change, extreme weather, and rising costs, are making life harder for people already struggling with hunger and hardship in the UK. Trussell’s Environmental Evidence Review shows that low-income households are hit hardest by climate risks, from floods and heatwaves to higher food and energy bills.

About the research

This review brought together evidence from national data, previous Trussell research, and direct consultation with people who have experienced hunger and hardship. It explored how environmental changes and related policies affect the drivers of food bank need, including money, housing, health, and work.

Key findings

• Climate change is driving up the cost of essentials. Food bills are rising, and energy costs are more volatile, putting extra pressure on people already at risk of hardship.
• Poor-quality housing, insecure work, and gaps in social security make it harder for people to cope with environmental shocks.
• Disabled people, carers, and people with mental health conditions face extra challenges as climate impacts grow.
• There are opportunities, like green jobs and better public transport, but only if policies are fair and include people most affected.
• People with lived experience of hunger and hardship involved in the research want action that reduces poverty and protects the environment. They call for energy cost support, fair distribution of costs and benefits, and for their voices to be heard in decision-making.

Conclusion

The move to a greener economy can help end the need for food banks but only if it’s fair. Policymakers must ensure that environmental action tackles poverty, not deepens it.