Nightingale Advocacy

Written by: Caris Abraham

Climate change is a pressing issue that has far-reaching consequences, particularly when it comes to public health. Texas, a state celebrated for its diverse landscapes and notorious for its extreme weather patterns, finds itself increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Heatwaves that claim lives in sweltering cities, the proliferation of infectious diseases like malaria in previously unaffected regions, and a general decline in public health are among the significant consequences. The rise in droughts, hurricanes, and floods, which are becoming both more frequent and more intense, poses a severe threat to our communities. Contrary to what some might assume, climate change doesn’t just bring hotter summers but also colder winters. The Texas Freeze of February 2021 serves as a vivid reminder of the unexpected challenges we face. The question that arises is how we can prepare for such extreme weather events and take effective action to combat climate change within our communities.

Climate Change’s Impact on Public Health

To comprehend the full scope of the issue, it is essential to grasp how climate change is affecting public health. It is manifest in several ways, including the following:

• Heat-Related Illnesses: Rising temperatures can lead to more heat-related illnesses and fatalities, particularly in urban areas.
• Spread of Infectious Diseases: Climate change has allowed diseases like malaria to encroach into regions that were previously untouched.
• Air Quality: Poor air quality resulting from climate change can exacerbate respiratory problems and heart diseases.
• Extreme Weather Events: More frequent and severe hurricanes, floods, and droughts pose immediate threats to public health.
• Food Security: Climate change can disrupt food production and agriculture, affecting our access to nutritious food.

Mitigation and Adaptation Efforts

Fortunately, there are efforts being made to address this pressing issue:

• Policy Initiatives: Policymakers and local authorities can take steps to combat climate change through various policy initiatives, including promoting renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and climate resilience strategies.
• Sustainable Lifestyles: Individuals can make a difference by adopting sustainable habits, reducing carbon footprints, and conserving resources. This can include using public transportation, conserving energy and water, and embracing recycling and composting.
• Grassroots Climate Initiatives: see below!

Supporting Local Climate Initiatives

Get involved with local organizations and initiatives that are working towards climate resilience in Texas. Join or create environmental clubs in your school to raise awareness and organize events focused on climate action— you can even apply for a leadership position to enable more change! Volunteer for community clean-up projects, tree-planting initiatives, or restoration efforts in your area. In addition to this, Senate Bill 2627 is currently pushing Texas to invest more money into even more power plants, so we need new clean energy bills to reach the government. Engage with your local representatives and brainstorm policies that prioritize renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and climate resilience strategies. 

We hold the power to shape the future of our planet. Climate change and extreme weather events are pressing challenges that require immediate action. If our generation decides to ignore climate change, Texas— along with the rest of the world— will only get hotter, crops & livestock will slowly be destroyed, respiratory & heart diseases will increase in severity, and severe natural disasters will be inevitable throughout America. By educating ourselves, embracing sustainable choices, and supporting local initiatives, we can make a tangible difference in Texas.