Ready for Change : Preparing Public Health Agencies for the Impacts of Climate Change
Datum
2010-05
Zeitschriftentitel
ISSN der Zeitschrift
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Zusammenfassung
Global climate change poses a significant and emerging threat to public health.1 Drought,
heat waves, flooding, storm damage and disease are all exacerbated by climate change.
Across the globe, hundreds of thousands of deaths annually have been directly linked to
the changing climate. It is also indirectly affecting the health of a comparable number of people
each year. With programs that reach across a variety of sectors and populations, the public health
community can play a pivotal role in preparing communities to cope with the serious and urgent
health consequences of climate change. For instance, increased instances of heat illness, spread
of vector- and water-borne disease, and heightened mental health stresses. Public health agencies
can also set an example for their community by actively reducing the greenhouse gas emissions
generated by their facilities and operations that contribute to changes in the global climate. In 2008, the University of Oregon’s Climate Leadership Initiative and the Oregon Coalition of Local
Health Officials surveyed Oregon public health departments on their knowledge of climate change,
the impacts on public health, actions being taken to prepare for these impacts, and resource
needs to take action. Many respondents expressed an interest in taking action to prepare their
departments and communities for climate change, but felt they did not have the knowledge, tools,
financial or staffing capacity, or organizational commitment to do so.
This manual is a response to those concerns. It provides guidance on how to prioritize and
implement the operational changes that allow public agencies to prepare their employees and
communities for climate change. Additionally, it provides guidance about how to demonstrate
and communicate a commitment to reducing risks and building resilience.
Beschreibung
43 p. "A Climate Masters Guide for the Public Health Sector."
Schlagwörter
Climatic changes -- Health aspects, Climate change