Abstract
Those living in poverty are significantly more affected by the consequences of the climate crisis than those without experience of poverty, both globally and in Austria. This is, at least in part, due to the limited financial resources available for adaptation to climate change. The article draws upon the theoretical concept of the imperial way of living to establish a link between poverty and the climate crisis. Consequently, it offers insights into the potential for social-ecological, transformative social work with individuals experiencing poverty in the context of the climate crisis. A research project, conducted by Volkshilfe
Österreich, constitutes the foundation for this investigation. The project’s objective was to examine the design and implementation of poverty-sensitive empowerment and participation formats. An excursus highlights the importance of including children and adolescents affected by poverty in discussions about the climate crisis. As a result, the article shows that social work informed by an understanding of inequality plays a pivotal role in enabling people experiencing poverty to participate in spaces for exchange and self-organization, where their rights can be strengthened and their demands formulated. However, social work can also facilitate the continued interpretation of its political mandate to hold decision-makers accountable and to implement climate-social measures.