Proceedings from the inaugural climate and health conference, October 21–22, 2023

Abstract

The global urgency to address the adverse effects of climate change on health, particularly within marginalized communities, necessitates concerted action from healthcare systems and professionals. Recognizing the critical role of health professionals in climate mitigation and adaptation, the Climate & Health 2023 Conference convened to address gaps in preparedness, build community, and foster international collaboration. The conference aimed to educate healthcare students and professionals, facilitate research dissemination, raise awareness of health disparities exacerbated by climate change, and promote innovative climate-responsive healthcare practices. Several key themes emerged from the conference sessions, spanning climate and health education, sustainability in healthcare delivery, community resilience, effective communication strategies, ethical considerations, and addressing healthcare disparities. Participants highlighted the urgent need to continue to integrate climate education into healthcare curricula and promote climate-smart healthcare practices, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability in clinical care. The importance of effective communication by healthcare professionals to engage the public and policymakers in climate action as well as storytelling by doctors in society as trusted voices were further emphasized as powerful tools to convey the health relevance of climate change. Sessions emphasized the imperative of addressing health disparities exacerbated by climate change, particularly in vulnerable communities. Moving forward, healthcare professionals must continue to advocate for climate action, integrate climate considerations into clinical practice, and prioritize health equity to build a resilient and climate-ready healthcare sector for the 21st century.