Global warming and environmental damage have significant impacts on the health and well-being of people in Australia and the Pacific region, including:
1. Extreme heat: Rising temperatures can lead to heatwaves, which can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and cardiovascular and respiratory problems.
2. Increased disease risk: Climate change can affect the distribution and prevalence of diseases. For example, warmer temperatures and changing rainfall patterns can lead to the spread of vector-borne (mosquito) diseases like dengue fever and malaria.
3. Air pollution: Environmental degradation and climate change can worsen air quality, leading to respiratory issues such as asthma and allergies.
4. Water-related illnesses: Changes in rainfall patterns can affect the availability and quality of water, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
5. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events can result in forced migration and homelessness, leading to mental health challenges for affected populations.
Children, ill and elderly people are more vulnerable to the health impacts of global warming and air pollution. People living in poverty, insecure housing or in areas prone to flooding, seawater inudation or high bushfire risk areas are especially vulnerable. Millions of people are taking action to mitigate these impacts and promote environmental and climate justice in Australia, including:
1. Shifting from fossil fuel-based energy sources to renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Electrifying transport and the energy system will reduce air pollution and save about 3000 premature deaths per year in Australia. Changing from gas heating and cooking to electric reduces indoor air pollution and reduces asthma and respiratiory conditions, especially in children.
2. Initiatives are being implemented to protect and restore ecosystems, promote sustainable agriculture, and reduce deforestation.
3. Governments and organizations are working to develop and implement strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as heatwave management plans and infrastructure upgrades.
4. Health agencies are focusing on educating communities about the health risks associated with climate change, implementing early warning systems, and improving healthcare services.
5. Climate justice advocacy: Various groups and organizations are advocating for equitable solutions that address the needs and rights of marginalized communities disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and climate change.
Together we can reduce the health impacts of climate change, promote sustainable practices, and ensure that the burdens and benefits of environmental protection and mitigation are shared fairly.
