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Mary A. Fox, PhD MPH, Mary C. Sheehan, PhD MPH, and Thomas A. Burke, PhD MPH
This course is an introduction to the multiple ways our changing climate affects global population health, and to promising policy and practice responses. More intense storms, heatwaves, and rising seas mean many, particularly the most vulnerable, now face...
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This course is an introduction to the multiple ways our changing climate affects global population health, and to promising policy and practice responses. More intense storms, heatwaves, and rising seas mean many, particularly the most vulnerable, now face growing risks of weather-related injury, illness, mental stress and even death. Because people care deeply about health outcomes, public health has great potential to convey the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to a warmer, more unpredictable climate. The main message of the course is that public health must therefore “lean in” and become a more central player in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Because climate-related health risks happen mainly at the local level, the course focuses on cities – increasingly key players in climate change policy. Starting with an overview of the science consensus suggesting we have 10-20 years to prevent risks associated with exceeding 1.5°C of global warming and put in place adaptive policies, the course provides interactive lectures, expert interviews and case studies that build practical knowledge. In the final assignment, participants apply course tools and strategies to a city of their choice, preparing them to contribute to climate mitigation and building health resiliency in their own local context.
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Teaches how climate change impacts human health and how public health can mitigate the risks
Focuses on the role of cities in climate change policy, making it relevant to local governments and organizations
Emphasizes the importance of public health in addressing climate change, which is an emerging and crucial topic in public health practice
Provides practical knowledge through interactive lectures, expert interviews, and case studies, making it engaging and applicable
Requires students to apply course tools to a city of their choice, fostering practical application and local impact
Taught by recognized experts in public health and climate change, ensuring high-quality instruction

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Reviews summary

Public health facing climate change

Students of this course found it enjoyable. They also felt that it was a useful learning tool. Based on the review data, this course is highly rated and may be of interest to learners who are interested in climate change and its effect on public health worldwide.
Course material is evidence based
"Excellent course. Lays out a foundation of data first, then evidence-based recommendations and case studies."
Real world useful
"Because climate-related health risks happen mainly at the local level, the course focuses on cities – increasingly key players in climate change policy."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action with these activities:
Review key public health concepts
Review the foundational concepts of public health, health disparities, health policy, epidemiology, and biostatistics to strengthen your understanding of the course materials.
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  • Read introductory textbooks or articles on public health
  • Review notes or materials from previous public health courses (if applicable)
  • Complete practice problems or quizzes on public health concepts
Read 'Climate and Health: The Global Challenge of Climate Change' by Anthony J. McMichael
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the health impacts of climate change by reading this seminal work, which provides valuable insights and evidence-based recommendations.
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  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts
  • Summarize the main arguments and findings of the book
  • Identify the implications of the book's findings for public health policy and practice
Participate in group discussions on climate change and health
Engage with your peers to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and discuss the complex interrelationships between climate change and global population health.
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  • Join online discussion forums or participate in group discussions during the course
  • Actively participate in discussions, sharing your perspectives and responding to others
  • Summarize the key points and insights gained from the discussions
Five other activities
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Explore online tutorials on climate change adaptation
Enhance your understanding of climate change adaptation strategies and best practices by following guided tutorials from reputable sources.
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  • Search for online tutorials on climate change adaptation from organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
  • Follow the tutorials and complete any exercises or assessments
  • Take notes and summarize the key takeaways from the tutorials
Attend webinars or conferences on climate change and public health
Connect with experts and professionals in the field to gain insights, learn about current research, and expand your network.
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  • Identify relevant webinars or conferences through professional organizations or online platforms
  • Register and attend the events
  • Actively engage in discussions and networking opportunities
  • Follow up with individuals you connect with and explore potential collaborations or learning opportunities
Volunteer with organizations working on climate change and health
Gain practical experience and make a meaningful contribution by volunteering with organizations dedicated to addressing the health impacts of climate change.
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  • Research and identify organizations that align with your interests
  • Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Participate in volunteer activities, such as community outreach, data collection, or educational programs
  • Reflect on your experiences and identify how they contribute to your understanding of climate change and health
Develop a public health campaign on climate change mitigation
Apply your understanding of climate change health risks and public health principles to create a compelling campaign that promotes climate change mitigation and protects public health.
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  • Identify the target audience and develop a clear message
  • Choose appropriate channels and platforms for your campaign
  • Create visually appealing and informative materials, such as posters, brochures, or social media posts
  • Implement your campaign and track its reach and impact
Develop a climate adaptation plan for a specific city
Apply your knowledge of climate change risks, vulnerability assessments, and adaptation strategies to develop a comprehensive plan for a specific city, contributing to the protection of public health and well-being.
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  • Select a specific city and research its climate change risks and vulnerabilities
  • Conduct a vulnerability assessment to identify the most vulnerable populations and sectors
  • Develop a comprehensive adaptation plan that outlines specific strategies and actions
  • Present your plan to stakeholders and seek feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and patterns of disease in human populations. They may work for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Epidemiologists, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Epidemiologists better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to prevent and control disease.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan the development of cities and towns. They may work for government agencies, planning firms, or non-profit organizations. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Urban Planners, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Urban Planners better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more sustainable and resilient cities.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts research and analyze health policy, and make recommendations to policymakers. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Health Policy Analysts, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Health Policy Analysts better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective policies to address them.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability programs for businesses, organizations, and communities. They may work in a variety of sectors, including energy, transportation, and waste management. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Sustainability Managers, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Sustainability Managers better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective sustainability programs.
Water Resources Manager
Water Resources Managers are responsible for managing water resources, including water quality, supply, and conservation. They may work for government agencies, water utilities, or environmental consulting firms. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Water Resources Managers, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Water Resources Managers better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to protect water resources.
Environmental Health Scientist
Environmental Health Scientists study the effects of environmental factors on human health. They may work for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Environmental Health Scientists, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Environmental Health Scientists better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to protect public health.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientists study the Earth's climate system and how it is changing. They use computer models, data analysis, and field observations to understand the causes and effects of climate change. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Climate Scientists, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Climate Scientists better understand the health impacts of climate change and communicate their findings to policymakers and the public.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Environmental Policy Analysts research and analyze environmental policy, and make recommendations to policymakers. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Environmental Policy Analysts, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Policy Analysts better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective policies to address them.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work to protect and improve the health of communities. They may work in schools, clinics, or community centers. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Public Health Nurses, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Public Health Nurses better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to protect the health of their communities.
Climate Change Adaptation Specialist
Climate Change Adaptation Specialists help communities prepare for the effects of climate change. As rising sea levels, more extreme heat, and other climate-related hazards put communities at risk, Adaptation Specialists design and implement strategies to help them adapt. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Climate Change Adaptation Specialists, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Adaptation Specialists better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to protect communities.
Public Health Advocate
Public Health Advocates work to promote public health policies and programs. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community groups. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Public Health Advocates, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Public Health Advocates better understand the health impacts of climate change and advocate for more effective policies to address them.
Disaster Relief Worker
Disaster Relief Workers provide assistance to communities affected by natural disasters. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international aid organizations. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Disaster Relief Workers, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Disaster Relief Workers better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to assist affected communities.
Climate Change Policy Analyst
Climate Change Policy Analysts research and analyze climate change policy, and make recommendations to policymakers. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Climate Change Policy Analysts, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Policy Analysts better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective policies to address them.
Air Quality Manager
Air Quality Managers are responsible for monitoring and protecting air quality. They may work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or industries. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Air Quality Managers, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks. The course could help Air Quality Managers better understand the health impacts of climate change and develop more effective strategies to protect air quality.
Climate Change Communicator
Climate Change Communicators help to communicate the science and impacts of climate change to the public. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or media outlets. The course, Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action may be useful for Climate Change Communicators, as it provides an overview of climate change's health risks and promising policy responses. The course could help Climate Change Communicators better understand the health impacts of climate change and communicate them more effectively to the public.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Protecting Public Health in a Changing Climate: A Primer for City, Local, and Regional Action.
This report provides an overview of the health risks posed by climate change and the responses that are needed to address them.
This report provides a comprehensive review of the evidence on the health impacts of climate change.
Provides a detailed examination of the health risks posed by climate change, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and mental health.
This guide provides practical guidance for local health departments on how to address the health impacts of climate change.

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