Soziale Dienste in der Umweltkrise

Social services and social work are influenced by ecological crises and, at the same time, play a central role in socio-ecological development. This article analyses this insight on three levels: First, it highlights that the provision of social services has various ecological impacts, ranging from the carbon footprint of welfare institutions to their influence on the environmental behavior of clients. These effects occur within a network of relationships that are shaped by social law. Second, the climate crisis increasingly affects welfare institutions in Germany. The focus here is on protecting employees and clients, who are often among the most vulnerable groups, as part of climate adaptation efforts. Third, social work as a profession and discipline is undergoing significant change. Ecological issues are increasingly integrated, both in direct support for clients and in addressing social-ecological inequalities at a structural level. Social work can act as a key socio-ecological player by contributing to change at both the individual and societal levels while addressing vulnerability through empowerment.