The health of the planet and its inhabitants are intrinsically linked, ultimately making the climate crisis the most significant human health crisis we will ever face.
From extreme heat waves to more frequent natural disasters, the changing climate is already taking a toll on human health and wellbeing, and the consequences are expected to intensify in the years ahead. This blog will explore how the climate crisis affects human health, including the physical and mental health impacts of extreme weather events, air pollution, and the spread of infectious diseases. We will also discuss how these impacts disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including low-income communities and people of colour, and explore potential solutions for mitigating the health effects of climate change. Whether you are a healthcare professional or simply someone interested in the intersection of climate and health, this blog will provide valuable insights into this critical issue.
Extreme weather events
Extreme weather events resulting from climate change will result in significant health impacts. Heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense due to the warming climate. These events can lead to physical injuries, mental health problems, and the displacement of communities. For example, the 2019 heatwave in France led to over 1,500 deaths. The 2017 hurricane season in the Caribbean caused over 3,000 deaths and left millions without access to necessities such as food, water, and medical care.
Air pollution
Air pollution is another primary health concern related to the climate crisis. Burning fossil fuels, which contributes to climate change, releases harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter into the air. Exposure to these pollutants has been linked to various health problems, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurological disorders. In 2019, air pollution was responsible for an estimated 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide.
Food and water security
The climate crisis is expected to have substantial impacts on food and water security for several reasons:
- Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns: Climate change is causing changes in weather patterns, leading to more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and storms. These changes can negatively impact crop yields, water availability, and the overall quality of food and water supplies.
- Loss of biodiversity: Climate change is causing habitat loss, leading to declines in plant and animal species. This can negatively impact food security, as many crops and livestock rely on healthy ecosystems to thrive.
- Sea level rise: As sea levels rise, saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources can occur, making drinking water sources unusable. This can lead to water scarcity and impact food production, as irrigation systems may not function properly.
- Extreme weather events: the previously mentioned extreme weather events can damage infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and water treatment facilities, disrupting food and water supplies. The resulting food and water scarcity resulting from climate change will have significant negative impacts on human health.
Food scarcity can lead to malnutrition and starvation, which can cause stunted growth, weakened immune systems, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. In addition, food insecurity can lead to psychological stress, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. While lack of access to safe and clean water can increase the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever. It can also lead to dehydration, which can cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness, and can be especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
Vector-borne diseases
Vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease, are also expected to become more common due to the changing climate. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns can increase the habitat and breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes and ticks. In addition, the movement of people and goods due to climate-related disasters can spread diseases to new areas. For example, the Zika virus, first identified in Africa in 1947, spread to the Americas in 2015 due to increased international travel and the changing climate.
The impact on vulnerable communities
It is essential to recognise that the health impacts of the climate crisis are not evenly distributed. Vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities, indigenous peoples, and people living in coastal areas or areas prone to extreme weather events, are particularly at risk. These populations may have limited access to medical care, clean water, and nutritious food, which can exacerbate the health impacts of climate change.
Mitigating climate change
The health impacts of the climate crisis are not inevitable, and there are steps we can take to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical to slowing the rate of climate change and reducing its health impacts. This can be done by transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition, there are steps we can take to prepare for and adapt to the changing climate. This includes investing in resilient infrastructure, such as flood barriers and green spaces that absorb excess water during heavy rainfall. It also includes improving access to clean water and sanitation, developing early warning systems for extreme weather events, and improving healthcare systems to better respond to the health impacts of climate change.
Individuals can also take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and protect their health. This includes reducing energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances and reducing car use by walking, cycling, or using public transportation. The Environment and Climate Change Committee have previously stated that behaviour change is needed in order for the UK to reach its net zero goals. This would include behaviour change around topics such as sustainable diets, reducing food waste, and supporting sustainable agriculture to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve food security. Taking action to reduce exposure to air pollution, such as avoiding exercise during high-pollution days and using air purifiers, can also help protect against the health impacts of air pollution.
Get in touch
To mitigate the worst health impacts of the climate crisis, we need to get everybody to play their part in reducing their carbon footprint. We specialise in helping organisations engage their people in the climate crisis and reducing their personal carbon footprints. If you want to know how we can help your organisation request a demo to speak to one of our sustainability engagement experts.
To read more about the Environment and Climate Change Committees comments on behaviour change, click here.
