Why nurses must lead on climate
The science is clear: climate change is one of the most serious threats to human health we face today… As nurses, we have a duty to provide our patients, communities, families and children with a safe and healthy future.
The most at-risk populations are children, elderly, low-income, and minorities… the burden of pollution and climate change falls unfairly on these populations, creating health disparities.
Climate change harms our water supply, air quality, food supply, and mental health and increases the occurrence of vector-borne diseases and extreme weather events… addressing climate change provides clean air and water and reduces climate-related health impacts and supports healthy environments and people.
Nurses are the most trusted professionals and have direct access to educating and engaging the public... they are credible and influential communicators on how climate change is impacting our health and call for climate solutions that will protect and promote our health and well-being in the varied communities and institutions they serve.