Around the world, the health impacts of climate change are becoming harder to ignore. From extreme heat and wildfires to hurricanes and floods, these events are leaving lasting effects not just on infrastructure, but also on human health.
Respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular strain, and mental health challenges are all on the rise, while vulnerable populations face the greatest risks.
Recognizing this urgent challenge, new initiatives are underway to ensure healthcare professionals are prepared to respond. In Moldova, with support from the United Nations Development Programme, doctors, nurses, and health workers are receiving specialized training on how climate change affects patients and what interventions can help.
This includes guidance on treating heat-related illnesses, responding to respiratory problems linked to poor air quality, and preparing for the health consequences of more frequent natural disasters.
The goal is to build a health system that can withstand the pressures of a changing climate while protecting the most at-risk populations. By equipping healthcare professionals with knowledge, tools, and adaptive strategies, communities will be better prepared to manage climate-related health emergencies.
Recent research reinforces the importance of these efforts. The World Health Organization has identified climate change as the single biggest health threat facing humanity. At the same time, experts stress that proactive training and preparedness can save countless lives and reduce the long-term costs of care.
Many .earth domain users are also raising awareness about the intersection of climate change and human health:
- Greenly.Earth: Explores how global warming is becoming a direct threat to public health. Learn more here.
- Dialogue.Earth: Examines what progress can be made in addressing the health impacts of climate change. Learn more here.
- TheCommons.Earth: Highlights how women’s health is uniquely connected to climate change and why it matters. Learn more here.
- CitizensClimate.Earth: Shares insights on why environmental health and human health are deeply linked. Learn more here.
Is your organization working to address the growing health impacts of climate change? The .earth domain provides the perfect platform to share your mission, expand your reach, and connect with communities focused on protecting people and the planet.
To learn more about the .earth domain, visit Voices.Earth. In addition, many organizations and individuals are sharing their voices about the benefits of a .earth domain in our Voices.Earth podcast series.
