Celebrating the contributions of South Asian groups within the UK is essential for fostering inclusivity and promoting a more diverse and sustainable Britain. Comprising individuals from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, South Asians represent a significant part of the UK population. According to the 2021 Census, South Asians accounted for 7.5% of the population, equating to over 5 million people. Our communities have played a vital role in shaping British society, culture, and the economy. Honouring this diversity not only recognises our contributions but also enriches society with varied ideas, perspectives, and talents.
The South Asian diaspora is rich and multifaceted, featuring a wide array of languages, religions, customs, and traditions. In the UK, we speak over 20 different languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Bengali, Gujarati, and Tamil. The religions practised within South Asian groups—Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, and Buddhism—each contribute unique cultural practices and environmental perspectives. Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Vaisakhi, and Durga Puja not only celebrate cultural diversity but also serve as platforms for promoting sustainability through communal gatherings, environmentally friendly practices, and awareness-raising about ecological issues.
South Asians in the UK significantly impact the economy, particularly in sustainable business practices. As one of the most entrepreneurial ethnic groups, they account for a substantial number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in sectors prioritising sustainability, such as hospitality and retail. Many South Asian businesses lead the way in sourcing local, sustainable products, minimising waste, and adopting eco-friendly practices. Approximately 14% of SMEs in the UK are owned by individuals of South Asian descent, with many committed to ethical and sustainable business models.
In addition, South Asian professionals contribute to various sectors, including healthcare, technology, law, and finance, often championing sustainability initiatives within their fields. The National Health Service (NHS) heavily relies on South Asian staff, with many advocating for sustainable practices in healthcare delivery. By promoting green healthcare initiatives, these professionals enhance patient care while reducing the ecological footprint of healthcare services.
However, it is crucial to recognise that South Asians are among the most vulnerable to environmental hazards in the UK. According to the Race Equality Foundation, minority groups disproportionately face environmental health issues compared to their White counterparts, primarily due to lower living standards exacerbated by societal inequalities. For instance, “44 of the most deprived local authority areas in England contain four times more ‘minority ethnic groups’... and people in Bangladeshi and Pakistani groups are twice as likely to be living on a low income as their White counterparts.”
These factors result in a greater impact on ethnic minorities regarding socioeconomic issues and environmental health challenges. Poor-quality housing can lead to increased exposure to damp and mould, significantly affecting respiratory health and resulting in severe long-term conditions. Additionally, South Asians are more likely to live in rented accommodations without flood-related insurance, making them particularly vulnerable to catastrophic losses from flood damage. Coastal communities in areas like Hull and Merseyside, with significant Asian populations, face heightened risks due to climate change and rising sea levels.
Extreme weather events also disproportionately affect South Asians, who may struggle with inadequate heating during cold winters or insufficient ventilation during heatwaves. As noted by Prevention Web, “Heatwaves have worrying implications for human health, including sleep loss, mental illness, and increased mortality and suicide rates.” Areas with high Asian populations, such as Nottingham, Birmingham, and Leicester, are particularly vulnerable to these climate-related challenges. Notably, UK residents from minority backgrounds are four times more likely to live in vulnerable areas compared to their White counterparts.
What Needs to Be Done?
Transitioning to renewable energy sources, like solar panels, benefits the environment and is increasingly supported among ethnic minority communities. However, those from lower-income households often find it challenging to afford such initiatives. Implementing schemes to subsidise home insulation and renewable energy installations could significantly reduce vulnerability to adverse weather conditions while promoting sustainability. Supporting initiatives that increase funding for these upgrades would not only make homes safer but also align with broader environmental goals.
Moreover, establishing low emissions zones and enforcing emissions standards that limit pollution in specific areas, such as London, have made strides in reducing air pollution exposure inequalities over the last decade. However, there is still little evidence regarding how these policies impact specific ethnic groups individually.
In conclusion, while we all share the community of Britain, the effects of environmental degradation do not impact us all equally. South Asians, as the largest minority ethnic group in the UK, are a vital part of what makes Britain diverse and resilient. By working together to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices, we can ensure that all members of our community thrive in a healthier and more equitable environment. Our collective efforts will help create a sustainable future for everyone.
