1) The Link Between Climate Change and Air Pollution
The environment we inhabit today is facing large-scale pollution and climate change at an unprecedented rate. Rising temperatures, ocean acidification, and an increase in natural disasters are only a few of the consequences of air pollution. Air pollution is one of the leading causes of climate change, and the effects of this factor can be far-reaching.
It’s essential to understand the link between climate change and air pollution and how both are related so that we can better understand how to reduce the effects of both. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between air pollution and climate change, as well as what we can do to reduce environmental damage caused by both.
What Causes Air Pollution?
Air pollution is a result of the human activities that release harmful chemical compounds, such as carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere. These contaminants, known as air pollutants, can be divided into two categories: primary pollutants and secondary pollutants. Primary pollutants are the direct sources of air pollution, such as factories, cars, and power plants, while secondary pollutants are produced when primary pollutants react with other compounds in the atmosphere.
Common primary pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon monoxide (CO). These pollutants are produced by the burning of fossil fuels to generate energy, and they can stay in the atmosphere for a long time—sometimes up to several weeks.
How Does Air Pollution Affect Climate Change?
The primary pollutants released into the atmosphere by human activities not only pollute the air, but they also act as greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere and can contribute to a variety of environmental problems, including climate change.
The most significant greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide (CO2). CO2 levels in the earth’s atmosphere have been steadily increasing due to the burning of fossil fuels, which is the leading cause of air pollution. As CO2 levels in the atmosphere continue to climb, global temperatures will also rise, resulting in adverse changes in weather patterns, habitats, and human health.
The Relationship Between Air Quality and Climate Change
Air pollution and climate change are interrelated, and they both affect the environment in a number of ways. Air pollution can both cause climate change by releasing greenhouse gases and be caused by climate change, as rising temperatures can promote air quality issues.
When air quality is low, it can cause illness, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Dust particles, ozone, and other air pollutants can be especially harmful to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or children. In addition to causing health problems, poor air quality can also result in decreased visibility and create difficulties with transportation and agricultural production.
What Can We Do to Reduce the Effects of Climate Change and Air Pollution?
We can all do our part to reduce the effects of climate change and air pollution. Individuals can take small steps to reduce their environmental footprint, such as reducing energy consumption at home and walking or biking when possible.
In addition, large-scale changes need to be made in order to significantly decrease the amount of air pollution and reduce the occurrence of climate change. These include transitioning away from fossil fuels, adopting green energy sources, and preserving green spaces.
In conclusion, the link between air pollution and climate change is undeniable, and it is essential that we take steps to reduce the amount of air pollution in order to make a positive change on our environment. Through education and action, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.
2) Rising Temperatures and Health Risks
As the global climate continues to warm due to anthropogenic activities and causes, many areas of the world are facing a number of rising temperature related health risks. From increased rates of cardiovascular illnesses, to a surge in respiratory diseases, the effects of climate change on human health are impossible to ignore. As more evidence emerges, more areas are recognizing that climate change is not only a threat to global ecosystems, but to public health as well.
Health Issues Caused By Rising Temperatures
One of the most immediate health issues caused by increases in temperature is the increased risk of cardiovascular illnesses. As temperatures rise, the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke increase exponentially, posing serious danger to those with cardiovascular issues. Increased temperature and humidity also increase ozone levels in the air, leading to increased concentrations of ground level ozone which can lead to serious complications for those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
While heat related illnesses may be the most immediate and visible health risk associated with rising temperatures, there are several other ailments that can be linked to rising temperatures. As temperatures increase, so does the likelihood of the spread of vector-borne illnesses such as malaria, encephalitis, and dengue fever which can have long-term implications for human health. An increase in ambient temperature also leads to an increase in air pollution levels, leading to an increase in the prevalence of respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
Impact on Mental Health
Rising temperatures have not just been linked to an increase in physical health ailments, but mental health as well. Studies have found a correlation between increased ambient temperature and an increased risk of depression. This is believed to be caused in part due to the inability of people to remain active in extreme temperatures, leading to a sedentary lifestyle which can be a precursor to depression.
Furthermore, due to extreme weather events such as floods, droughts and heat waves, people are also facing displacement and loss of livelihoods, leading to anxiety, stress and a sense of helplessness – all of which can exacerbate mental health conditions.
Infectious Diseases
As temperatures rise, health care professionals are experiencing a steep increase in the prevalence of certain infectious diseases, such as those caused by bacteria, viruses and parasites. As temperatures increase, more bugs are able to survive and thrive in warmer weather, making it easier for the diseases to spread and the antibodies to weaken.
Increasing Pollution Impact
As temperatures continue to rise, air pollution levels are also on the rise, leading to further health risks. Air pollution is linked to a number of serious health issues such as heart disease, lung cancer, and COPD. Furthermore, particulate matter in the air, such as dust and soot, can reduce the amount of oxygen in the air leading to issues with respiration. As temperatures continue to climb, the situation is likely to worsen.
Heat Wave Frequency and Intensity
The frequency and intensity of heat waves are expected to increase as the climate continues to warm. In a heat wave, temperatures are excessively high for a period of several days, leading to oppressive conditions and an increased risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. This is a particular concern for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies
Adaptation and mitigation strategies, such as the implementation of green initiatives and the promotion of energy efficiency, are essential in order to reduce the effects of climate change on health. These strategies will reduce emissions, leading to a decrease in air pollution and, in turn, a decrease in the health risks associated with rising temperatures. Furthermore, these strategies can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, thereby helping to mitigate the risks associated with displacement and loss of livelihoods.
Ultimately, it is important for public health to be put at the forefront of any and all climate change initiatives. Rising temperatures lead to a wide range of physical and mental health issues and, without an urgent and coordinated response from health professionals, policy makers and industry, the human cost of climate change will be immense and wide-reaching.
3) Intensified Weather Events and Health Impacts
As our planet continues to undergo climate change, we’re seeing an increase in extreme weather events, from stronger hurricanes to more intense rain. So far, the evidence suggests that these unpredictable and dangerous weather events will only become more extreme and frequent as climate change continues to worsen. As a result, many communities around the world are already feeling the effects of these events in the form of physical and mental health issues associated with prolonged exposure to extreme weather.
Impacts On Mental Health
Climate change-impacted weather events can have a profound effect on mental health. For individuals who are already suffering from mental illnesses, exposure to extreme weather can trigger a worsening of their symptoms. Natural disasters like floods, wildfires and hurricanes can be traumatic events which can cause PTSD in individuals. The more intense these events become, the more likely it is that individuals will experience ongoing mental health issues as a result.
Furthermore, people who live in areas that are more vulnerable to extreme weather events are more likely to experience mental health issues. For example, a study conducted in 2018 on hurricane-impacted areas in the Gulf Coast of the United States found that adults in the region had a significantly higher rate of depression than adults in non-impacted areas.
Impacts On Physical Health
Climate change-impacted weather events can also take a toll on physical health. Heat waves, for example, can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, particularly in vulnerable populations such as elderly adults and children. During heat waves, air pollution levels can increase significantly, leading to complications like lung inflammation and asthma, especially among those who already suffer from pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Floods and hurricanes, meanwhile, can spread diseases through contaminated water and debris. For example, flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017 saw an increase in the spread of waterborne illnesses like gastroenteritis and leptospirosis, and an increase in the reported cases of rat-bite fever due to rats being uprooted by the hurricane and seeking shelter in homes.
Impacts On Health Care Systems
The health impacts of climate change-impacted weather events can extend beyond the physical and mental health of individuals to the health care systems in those areas. In areas that experience strong hurricanes, for example, health care facilities can be destroyed or flooded, leaving people without access to essential medical care. This can result in a strain on available resources and an increased pressure on already stretched health care systems.
Furthermore, when extreme weather events occur, healthcare professionals can experience an increased workload due to the influx of patients. This can lead to physical and mental exhaustion of health care staff and a decrease in the quality of care provided.
How To Minimize The Health Impacts Of Extreme Weather Events
In order to minimize the physical and mental health impacts of climate change-impacted extreme weather, it’s essential that both individuals and communities take action. For individuals, it’s important to stay informed about the weather and take steps to protect oneself and vulnerable family members, such as drinking plenty of fluids during heatwaves, stocking up on non-perishable items during natural disasters, and having an emergency plan in case of an evacuation.
For communities, it’s important to ensure that health care facilities are properly resourced and well-prepared for extreme weather events. Furthermore, emergency preparedness initiatives should be conducted in vulnerable communities to ensure that response plans are in place when natural disasters occur. To help prevent deaths and illnesses caused by climate change-impacted extreme weather, it’s essential that we take action now to protect communities and individuals from the health impacts of extreme weather events.
4) Increase in Vector-Borne Diseases
Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens and parasites, typically infecting humans or animals through bites from an infected vector or carrier such as a mosquito, fly, tick, flea, or other insect. Vector-borne diseases include malaria, Zika virus, dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus, among many other diseases. Vector-borne disease threats are increasing due to climate change, and as the Earth continues to warm, vector-borne diseases could become even more of a threat.
Climate change contributes to the spread of vector-borne diseases because it affects a wide range of factors that can increase the risk of disease transmission. Warmer air temperatures, temperature changes throughout the day, and increased humidity can all make it easier for vectors to reproduce more quickly and thus spread the disease further. Mosquito-borne diseases, in particular, depend heavily upon warm temperatures, with mosquitoes becoming more active when the temperature reaches over 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Changes in Natural Habitat
A change in natural habitats due to climate change can also lead to an increased risk of vector-borne disease transmission. Warmer temperatures can cause habitats to change, including changes in the types of vegetation and wildlife that inhabit the area, as well as changes to the water sources used by vectors such as mosquitoes. Unseasonably warm weather can delay cold-weather mortality of pests, which can increase their population levels and extend their lifespans. This makes it more likely for insect populations to build up and spread diseases.
Deforestation
Deforestation, which is often linked to climate change, can also pose a risk to vector-borne diseases. Deforestation weakens the natural environment, reducing the habitats of wild animals and plants that can act as barriers to the spread of disease. This can also allow an influx of new species to an area that haven’t yet come into contact with certain vector-borne diseases, increasing the risk of them becoming infected.
Migration Patterns
Climate change can also lead to changes in migration patterns of both humans and animals. People or animals may be forced to move to new locations due to changes in their local environment, allowing them to come into contact with new vectors or vectors that aren’t present in their original location. This increases their risk of becoming infected with a vector-borne disease due to lack of natural immunity in the new environment.
Agricultural Change
Changes to agricultural practices due to climate change can also pose a risk to vector-borne disease transmission. As the climate warms, changes in crop production can pave the way for new types of vector-borne diseases. Warmer climates can speed up the life cycle of pests like mosquitoes, while changes in irrigation practices and groundwater supply can create new habitats that mosquitoes can thrive in.
Reduced Vector Control Measures
More extreme weather events due to climate change can also lead to reduced vector control measures, which can increase the risk of vector-borne disease transmission. For example, flooding or extreme winds and rain can damage or destroy insect control measures, such as insect traps or nets, allowing vectors to move into new areas and spread diseases.
Overall, climate change presents a serious risk to vector-borne disease transmission. Warmer air temperatures, changes in natural habitats, deforestation, migration patterns, agricultural changes, and reduced vector control measures can all increase the risk of vector-borne disease transmission. Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and increasing focus on natural ecosystems can play a key role in limiting the spread of vector-borne diseases.
5) Effects on Mental Health
It is clear that climate change is happening, and as time goes on, its effects are becoming more apparent. High temperatures, melting glaciers, extreme weather conditions, and rising sea levels are just a few of the changes people have already experienced. Though the majority of discourse about climate change focuses on physical health, its impact on people’s mental well-being is becoming increasingly more understood.
How Does Climate Change Affect Mental Well-Being?
Climate change can cause a range of mental health issues, from a feeling of grief and despair to increased levels of stress and anxiety. People’s homes, livelihoods, and daily activities can all be affected by climate change. Not only that, but it can also make existing medical problems or stressful life events much worse.
Below are just a few of the ways climate change can take a toll on mental health:
1. Worry and Anxiety
The threat of weather-related disasters can cause people to worry and feel anxious, especially those living in vulnerable areas. In addition, the knowledge that humans are primarily responsible for causing climate change can lead to feelings of guilt and worry.
2. Financial Stress
As climate change progresses, people’s finances may suffer as a result. Unfavourable weather conditions can lead to crop loss, flooding, and other costly damages. This kind of financial strain can be stressful and can increase the risk of mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
3. Fear of the Unknown
As the effects of climate change become more unpredictable, people may experience a heightened sense of fear and anxiety about the future. This fear can be especially pronounced for those already living in poverty or with pre-existing psychological issues.
4. Isolation and Sense of Loss
Changes to the environment can cause people to grieve the loss of familiar objects and places, as well as the disruption of social and cultural activities associated with them. These losses can be difficult to cope with and may lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation.
5. Aggression and Conflict
In some cases, climate change can lead to an increase in aggression and conflict. This can be caused by a lack of access to fertile land, water shortages, and other resources that people rely on. Furthermore, disputes and violence can arise from displacement and migration, both of which are attributed to climate change.
What Can Be Done To Mitigate These Effects?
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate these effects on mental health. Here are just a few:
1. Education and Awareness
Educating people about the issues surrounding climate change can help reduce the associated threat, worry, and anxiety that people are experiencing.
2. Connecting with Others
Connecting with family and friends to talk about climate change can create a sense of mindfulness and acceptance. Similarly, community initiatives such as planting projects, beach clean-ups, and tree-planting initiatives can help connect people and create a sense of collective hope.
3. Get Involved in Education and Policy Reform
It is important for individuals to become involved in policy reform and education initiatives to help bring about climate action. Writing to local politicians, offering input at public meetings, and joining groups that are advocating for climate change can help people to feel empowered and positive about their ability to make a difference.
4. Supportive Services
For those already struggling with mental health issues, it is important to access supportive services and seek professional help. Mental health counselors can provide effective strategies to cope with the emotional distress of climate change.
Climate change is a universal problem, and its effects on physical health are widely discussed. It is important, however, to not overlook the mental health implications of climate change. It is clear that climate change can have a damaging effect on mental well-being, so it is important to take steps to mitigate these effects. By making people aware of the reality of climate change, connecting with others, becoming involved in policy reform, and researching mental health services, people can feel empowered to make a difference both for themselves and for the environment.
6) Effects on Nutrition
The Earth is in the middle of a crisis. Our planet is seeing signs of climate change on a massive scale – and there’s no denying it. As things stand, it’s clear that if current trends continue, climate change will have wide-reaching and devastating impacts. One of the lesser discussed negative effects of climate change on the environment, however, is its impact on nutrition.
Climate change has direct effects on the production of agricultural products, which provide a large portion of the nutrition that humans rely on. When we look at how agricultural products are produced and how they are impacted by climate change, we can get a much clearer picture of how it is influencing global nutrition.
The Impact of Heat Waves
Heat waves have been made far more common and intense due to climate change. This affects both crops and food animals. Plants tend to grow more slowly and become more susceptible to diseases during periods of intense heat. In some places, the heat may be so severe that growth never begins, leading to total crop failure.
Heat waves can also cause animals to grow slower and be more prone to disease. This, in turn, will lead to lower amounts of meat available for human consumption.
The Impact of Drought
Droughts can have disastrous effects on the animal kingdom, leading to poor nutrition or even death. Plants, too, can be negatively impacted by drought, leading to lower yields of fruits and vegetables. Also, during periods of drought there is less water available for use in agriculture, which further limits production of food products.
The Impact of Floods
Flooding is yet another negative effect of climate change. In many areas, heavy rainstorms are becoming more common and more intense. This can lead to flooding, which washes away agricultural products and makes it difficult for farmers to grow crops. There can also be serious consequences for animals, as floods can damage the food sources they rely on.
The Impact of Increased Carbon Dioxide Levels
Carbon dioxide is one of the main drivers of climate change. Unfortunately, higher levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can also negatively impact nutrition. Studies have shown that increased carbon dioxide can reduce the nutritional content of certain crops, leading to lower levels of important vitamins and minerals.
Additionally, some studies have found that increased carbon dioxide can lead to a decrease in protein content in foods. This could have a serious effect on human health, which is already threatened by the other negative effects of climate change.
The Impact of Insects
Climate change is also having an effect on other forms of life, including insects. The changing climate has led to an explosion of insect populations in some areas, while in other parts of the planet they are vanishing.
Either way, the rise or fall of insects can lead to disruption in the food chain and thus negatively impact nutrition. For example, if the population of a key species of insect is reduced, the species that rely on them for food may die off or migrate elsewhere.
Climate change is having a serious and widespread effect on human nutrition. Rising temperatures, drought, floods, and insect populations all have a role to play in the disruption of global nutrition patterns. The more knowledge we gain about the impacts of climate change, the better equipped we will be to fight back against it and hopefully restore some balance to the environment.
7) Access to Quality Healthcare
Climate change has become one of the most pressing matters of our time, as recent research has shown that the effects of the changing climate—including extreme heat and frequent droughts—are creating health emergencies across the world. The increasing prevalence of climate-related health conditions, especially in more vulnerable populations, highlights the importance of access to quality healthcare. Though the number of climate-related health problems is growing, access to quality healthcare remains challenging in many communities, leaving individuals and families in perilous conditions.
Though much of the discussion surrounding climate change focuses on the environment, access to quality healthcare is a crucial element of preparing and adapting to extreme weather events. Quality healthcare access can ensure that those affected by climate-related health issues receive necessary medical attention and treatment. This article will examine the important role that healthcare plays in helping those affected by climate change and how individuals and communities can access quality healthcare when necessary.
The Growing Need For Quality Healthcare
As the climate continues to change, the health threats associated with climate change are becoming more and more serious. The World Health Organization reports that in 2013, an estimated 7 million people died due to air pollution alone—and as the climate continues to change and extreme weather events become more common, this number is likely to rise.
Extreme weather events like floods, storms, heat waves, and droughts can all have serious health implications. Though these implications are especially severe in vulnerable populations, the health threats posed by climate-related events can affect anyone. From respiratory illnesses caused by air pollution to heat stroke caused by extreme heat, the health implications of a changing climate are widespread.
Given the global nature of the health threats associated with climate change—and the fact that many of these health threats disproportionately affect vulnerable populations—access to quality healthcare is an important element of preparing for and managing climate-related health issues.
Access to Quality Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare can be a significant challenge for some individuals and communities, especially those in developing countries and remote communities. In the United States, for example, access to quality healthcare is closely associated with income level and insurance coverage. Though individuals with health insurance may be able to access quality healthcare, those without are often unable to do so.
In developing countries, access to quality healthcare is often restricted due to limited resources and a lack of infrastructure. This makes it more difficult for those in developing countries to access the medical attention and treatment they need, especially in the wake of extreme weather events. Similarly, remote communities—such as those in rural areas and Indigenous communities—are often unable to access quality healthcare due to limited resources and poor infrastructure.
The Impact of Access to Quality Healthcare for Climate Change
Access to quality healthcare can be critical for those affected by climate change and its associated health threats. Quality medical attention and treatment can help individuals manage their symptoms, recover from injury and illness, and prevent further health deterioration. These benefits are especially important for those in vulnerable populations and remote communities, who are often particularly susceptible to climate-related health risks.
Yet despite its importance, access to quality healthcare remains an issue for many communities. This lack of access to quality healthcare can have serious consequences; in some cases, it can lead to premature death due to insufficient medical attention and treatment.
Creating Access to Quality Healthcare
Though access to quality healthcare can be challenging, there are steps that can be taken to create access in communities where it is lacking. Governments and healthcare providers are working to ensure that individuals and communities are provided with quality healthcare, both domestically and internationally.
In the United States, the Affordable Care Act has been instrumental in providing access to healthcare for individuals who were previously unable to obtain it. In addition, initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure can help individuals and communities access the medical attention and treatment they need, even in remote areas.
International organizations are also working to create access to quality healthcare in developing countries. Organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, among others, are providing significant funding for healthcare infrastructure and medical attention in developing countries. While access to quality healthcare is still a challenge in many remote and developing countries, these organizations are helping to find solutions by improving health infrastructure and increasing awareness of healthcare options.
Access to quality healthcare is a pressing issue, both nationally and globally. As the climate continues to change, the health risks associated with climate change are becoming more and more severe, requiring access to quality healthcare to manage symptoms, recover from illness, and prevent further health deterioration. Though access to quality healthcare is a challenge in some communities, governments, healthcare providers, and international organizations are working to ensure that individuals and communities are able to access the medical attention and treatment they need, both domestically and internationally.
Access to quality healthcare is an important part of managing the health risks associated with climate change and ensuring that affected individuals and communities receive necessary medical attention and treatment. Despite the challenges associated with providing access to quality healthcare, the global community is taking steps to ensure that individuals and communities are provided with quality healthcare to manage climate-related health emergencies.
8) Opportunities to Protect Health
The damage that climate change can have on the health of people around the world is vast and far-reaching, partially due to the complex relationships between different elements of climate and health. As communities and countries strive to protect their population from the negative health impacts of climate change, powerful opportunities are arising.
This article covers several of the top health-related opportunities that come with climate change mitigation; steps that can both mitigate climate change and improve public health.
Reducing Emissions From Transportation
Transportation is one of the major sources of air pollution, thus being one of the major causes of negative health impacts on a community. Just one example is the emission of particulate matter, which has been linked to respiratory diseases and cardiovascular events.
Reducing emissions from transportation can therefore greatly benefit public health, while also helping to reduce the effects of climate change. The opportunities include incentivizing the use of mass transportation and electric vehicles, reducing the use of individual vehicles, and improving urban design and infrastructure to reduce congestion and emissions.
Reducing Emissions From Energy Production
The burning of fossil fuels for energy production is a major source of air pollution, leading to large-scale health problems and environmental damage. This is especially true in countries that are heavily reliant on coal for energy production.
To mitigate this, countries can implement a variety of measures to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and shift towards renewable energy sources. This includes the promotion of energy efficiency measures, incentives for the use of renewable energy, and the introduction of carbon taxes to reduce emissions.
Improving Air Quality
Air pollution, which tends to be associated with climate change, can have a profound effect on public health. Particulate matter, ozone, and air toxins are all associated with the burning of fossil fuels and have been linked to an increase in mortality and morbidity.
To tackle air pollution and improve air quality, countries can introduce initiatives such as clean energy zones, pollution-control plans, and clean energy standards. This will help to improve public health while also reducing emissions.
Improving Waste Management
Waste management is an essential component of health, as improper waste management can lead to numerous environmental and health risks. The burning of waste may result in air pollution, which can lead to respiratory problems and asthma. Additionally, improper disposal of waste can lead to water contamination.
The mitigation of climate change through improved waste management has several health-related benefits. Waste reduction strategies, including policies to incentivize the reuse and recycling of materials, can help to reduce air pollution. Additionally, improved waste management can prevent the emissions of greenhouse gases such as methane, which have been linked to serious health problems.
Reducing Impacts of Extreme Weather
Extreme weather events, such as intense heat, can lead to a variety of health impacts. These include heat stroke, dehydration, and other water-borne illnesses. In addition, flooding can lead to water contamination, while other events such as hurricanes can lead to displacement and mental health issues.
Opportunities to protect health through climate change mitigation include the identification of vulnerable communities to extreme events, the promotion of adaptation strategies, and the improvement of infrastructure to reduce impact.
Promoting Health Equity
There is significant evidence that vulnerable and disadvantaged communities are disproportionately impacted by climate change, which can lead to an increase in health disparities.
Health equity should therefore be an essential component of climate change mitigation, with an emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations. This includes doing more to reduce economic and social inequalities, which are often linked to health disparities.
Climate change mitigation is not only necessary to preserve the environment, but also to protect the health of people around the world. The opportunities discussed in this article demonstrate how countries and communities can implement strategies to both mitigate climate change and promote health. Moreover, with the significant health benefits of climate change mitigation, it should be an urgent priority for all countries.
