Special Seminar: 427 ppm and 1.55°C: Population health and environmental justice in an era of climate change
Dr. Joan Casey, Associate Professor, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences and Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health.
October 3rd 1:30-2:30pm
Location : HYBRID - 2001 McGill College 11th floor room 1140
With atmospheric CO2 reaching 427 ppm, and global average surface temperatures climbing 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels, we are witnessing unprecedented climate change with implications for human health and health equity. Here, I discuss studies on the spatiotemporal distribution and health effects of high temperatures, power outages, and wildfires, as well as parallel work on fossil fuel energy production, both a driver of climate change and a risk factor for adverse health outcomes. Central to these studies is recognizing that climate impacts affect the most vulnerable populations first and worst. This intersection requires immediate and sustained attention by researchers and policymakers. I conclude by outlining future priority research directions and the role population health scientists must play in advancing and evaluating policies that address climate, energy, and health as interconnected challenges requiring coordinated solutions.
