Community Solutions to Climate Change

As so many of us have seen and experienced, climate change disproportionately burdens communities of color and other underserved populations, creating additional health risks and worsening inequities. Grassroots, community-based organizations (CBOs) across the country have been responding to this threat in real time with innovative solutions – even with limited resources. Equipped with the knowledge of what their communities need to stay safe and healthy, these CBOs are partnering with other local organizations and funders who understand that local approaches to climate change relief and protection are as critical as large-scale, global policy change. 

During the webinar, speakers discussed the relationship between climate change and health equity. Over the course of an hour, climate equity leaders covered:

• Leveraging a healthcare system’s power and influence to help create healthier, more equitable, and climate resilient communities;
• Scientific and historical context to why certain populations – such as those living in urban areas or those with lower socioeconomic status – are at greater risk of climate related health impacts; and
• Examples of community-led climate justice initiatives, including advocacy efforts in Boston to create a better train line that is electric, affordable and accessible.

Speakers

• Kendra Beaver, Climate Justice Coordinator, Fairmount Indigo CDC Collaborative (FICC)
• Gary Cohen, President & Co-Founder, Health Care Without Harm
• David Padgett, PhD, Associate Professor of Geography and Director of Geographic Information Sciences, Tennessee State University

Moderator

• Jacquelyn Dalton, MPH, Director, Vaccine Equity Cooperative | Health Equity Community Collaborative 

Webinar Slideshow

Spanish Recording