British Sign Language (BSL) has taken a significant step forward by introducing new signs that enable people, particularly the deaf community, to engage in discussions about the climate crisis.
As 2024 became the hottest year on record, with global temperatures exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, the urgency of climate discussions has never been greater. However, these critical conversations have often been inaccessible to some communities.
Now, thanks to a team of experts, the deaf community can participate more fully in the climate dialogue with the creation of new BSL terms specifically designed for modern environmental concepts.
Bridging the Gap Through Language
A multidisciplinary team at a British university has developed a comprehensive set of climate-related signs for BSL users.
This initiative brings together experts in conservation, linguistics, and visual communication, aiming to make scientific discussions more inclusive.
“For a long time, British Sign Language lacked vocabulary for modern concepts like urban heat islands and carbon footprints,” said a team member.
“We focused on creating signs that visually represent these ideas to ensure they are easy to understand and use in conversation.”
One example is the sign for “carbon footprint,” which incorporates gestures symbolising carbon emissions rather than relying on a literal interpretation of “footprint.”
This visual approach helps convey the concept’s true meaning, making it more accessible to the deaf community.
Learning the Language of Climate
In Glasgow, students are already learning these new signs, enabling them to better engage with climate science and global discussions.
A student shared, “These new signs are essential for understanding scientific terminology. They help us grasp the exact meaning of critical concepts, ensuring that deaf individuals are no longer left out of the conversation.”
Another student expressed concern over extreme weather events, like flooding and heavy rainfall, emphasising the need for deaf communities to stay informed about global issues.
A Visual Approach to the Crisis
The project not only benefits deaf individuals but also enhances overall communication about the climate crisis.
In Reading, a climate scientist highlighted the power of visual data, showcasing a graphic transitioning from blue to red to depict rapid global warming.
“This image encapsulates the urgency of our situation. The data for 2024, to be released soon, will add a dark red stripe, representing the warmest year on record,” the scientist explained. “The good news is that since humans caused this problem, we can also solve it by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.”
Towards an Inclusive Future
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, ensuring inclusivity in the conversation is a critical step forward. By equipping the deaf community with the tools to engage, this initiative not only empowers individuals but also strengthens collective efforts to combat the climate crisis.
With 2025 on the horizon, the push for inclusivity in addressing the climate emergency may be the catalyst for the transformative change the world urgently needs.
