Govind Tekale
Photo Source: Free Malaysia Today
Colorado prisons are increasingly vulnerable to climate hazards like extreme heat and wildfire smoke, exposing incarcerated people to worsening environmental conditions.
Photo Source: Ran On climate
Research reveals that outdated infrastructure and inadequate policies leave prisoners without adequate protection from rising climate threats.
CU Boulder researchers found that 80% of Colorado's incarcerated population faces at least one serious climate risk, from extreme heat to potential flooding.
Photo Source: How To Justice
Some incarcerated individuals have endured weeks of extreme temperatures due to lack of air conditioning or proper ventilation—conditions some compare to “a tiny form of torture.
Photo Source: Stephen T Bowling
Interviews with formerly incarcerated people describe prisons falsifying temperature data and downplaying the extent of poor living conditions during extreme weather.
Photo Source: The U.S. National Archives
Why were inmates left without power or water for days during hurricanes, while evacuation orders were in effect outside?
Photo Source: Verywell Mind's
“There is a lot of focus on the strength and stability of these facilities, with little attention to the well-being of incarcerated people,” said co-author Shideh Drashti.
Photo Source: Jade Lemoine
CU Boulder researchers say inadequate climate preparedness in prisons is not just a Colorado issue—it reflects a troubling national pattern.
Photo Source: EdouardHue (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Legislative efforts to improve prison conditions often face roadblocks, as opinions on punishment versus safety for prisoners vary widely.
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