Empowering Health Professionals: Collaborate and Advocate for Climate Change Solutions

Message delivered at the Makati Medical Center Family Credit Cooperative’s 33rd General Assembly, focusing on building a sustainable future.

Welcome, everyone! Today, let’s dive into a pressing issue we all face: climate change. The Philippines is especially vulnerable due to its location in the Pacific Ocean and the Ring of Fire. From 2022 to 2024, we’ve been named the most at-risk nation for disasters in the World Risk Report. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s the harsh reality for millions of Filipinos. Typhoons, floods, and extreme heat have become everyday threats.

Last year, we experienced six typhoons in just one month. This unusual event highlights the growing impact of climate change, as confirmed by data from World Weather Attribution. The consequences are deep and painful. Many families lose their homes and livelihoods, while our communities struggle to recover with limited resources.

For countless Filipinos, climate change means instability. Families are uprooted, and children miss school as they deal with the fallout of these disasters. Those living in poverty suffer the most, lacking the support needed to withstand such challenges. Building resilience feels impossible for them.

So, where do health professionals fit into this picture? You are key players in addressing the climate crisis. Your training allows you to tackle health issues and advocate for social justice and environmental health simultaneously. Your role can significantly impact public health and climate resilience.

First, let’s discuss how climate change affects health. Extreme weather leads to rising cases of waterborne diseases, heat-related problems, respiratory issues from poor air quality, and mental health struggles due to trauma. It’s essential to raise awareness about these risks and prepare for potential outbreaks. By embedding climate education in health programs, you can empower individuals to take charge of their health in the face of changing environments.

Moreover, your voice matters. Use it to support policies that champion environmental sustainability. Advocate for green practices within healthcare, like reducing waste and conserving energy. Lead by example, showing your community the link between a healthy planet and good health.

Collaboration is also vital. Work alongside various sectors, such as education and urban planning, to develop thorough strategies that strengthen community resilience. The health sector must be at the forefront of disaster risk reduction efforts, ensuring our systems are robust enough to handle climate-related challenges.

The statistical data from recent surveys show that 50% of health professionals agree they have a responsibility to address climate change in their practice. Additionally, research indicates that engaging communities in climate education can enhance adaptability by 30%. Such actions can help foster a culture of preparedness and resilience.

Climate change poses serious challenges, but it also urges us to act. Health professionals are not just observers; you are essential players in the movement towards a sustainable future. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, you can help cultivate resilient communities and empower individuals to thrive amid environmental changes.

Let’s unite in this mission. Together, we can transform our vision of a sustainable future into reality. Thank you all for your commitment to this cause. Let’s work hand in hand to build a brighter tomorrow for every Filipino.

The author is the founder of the Young Environmental Forum and serves as a director of Climate Tracker Asia Inc. He has studied climate change and sustainability at esteemed institutions, including the University of East Anglia and Yale University.

Check out this related article: Uncovering the Crisis: The Struggle of Tropical Forests to Adapt to Climate Change

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