The Guardian quoted research showing that climate change could be responsible for an increase in gun violence on Friday.
A new study has revealed that almost 8,000 shootings took place in US cities in the past few years because of unseasonably high temperatures.
This study looked at shootings in 100 US cities between 2015 and 2020.
Dr. Vivian Lyons from the University of Washington, Seattle led the research.
Lyons stated that there was a consistent relationship between temperature and a greater chance of shootings. It is helpful to know that firearm violence occurs more frequently on hotter days, regardless of the season.
She stated, “There is an concern that I have after this study,” and also added, “That firearm-related violence will increase as the climate change continues.” ”
Researchers believe that green space and tree cover can reduce gun violence. They also “cool” cities.
Breitbart News reported that Debra Houry, director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, suggested that more trees might reduce gun violence.
Houry said that “[I]nitiatives like restoring vacant lots or planting trees and grass have been shown to reduce firearm violence.” ”
WXOW quoted Houry saying that her tree planting program was a “greening project”. She said, “We also funded research into greening programs where you can go in and make vacant lots more beautiful by planting trees and grass. It has been shown to reduce firearm assaults by up to 29% in areas with low income.