Ways families can mitigate effects of climate change
Q: The news about climate change is overwhelming. Are there steps average people can take that actually make a difference? A: Climate change can be scary and overwhelming for children and families. It causes harm from storms, wildfires, emerging illnesses and heat and air pollution. Many of these harms build upon one another to worsen child health.
Recently, 10,000 people ages 16 to 25 from 10 countries were surveyed about climate change and government responses to climate change. Over half said they felt sad, anxious, angry, powerless, helpless and guilty; 83% agreed that people have failed to take care of the planet.
The good news is some of the actions needed to reduce climate change will improve children’s health. But even small choices that parents and kids make every day can have a big impact — and, in turn, are better for our health.
For example, choosing to spend time in nature and green spaces is good for a child’s physical and mental health. And adding more green space with trees for shade reduces extreme heat in cities.
In the United States, two sources — electricity and transportation — cause the most greenhouse gas emissions. Shifting to renewable energy, like solar and wind power, improves air quality. This change will help children breathe less polluted air. Cleaner air can improve birth outcomes and children’s cardiovascular, respiratory and neurologic health.
Biking, walking and public transportation also help keep the air clean and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Some types of food, including red meat, contribute more to climate change and are less healthy for children. Food waste also releases a potent greenhouse gas called methane into the air that worsens climate change.
Some diet changes to consider:
Focus on healthy food choices rich in plant-based nutrition.
Avoid processed foods, sugars and meats.
Plan meals, cut back on the amount of food you buy and eat leftovers or foods that will spoil first.
Try these other health-boosting actions that also help the Earth:
Start a backyard compost bin or participate in your community’s compost program.
Choose walking, biking and public transportation.
Support “safe routes to school” programs. Weatherize your home. Consider rooftop solar panels or support clean energy through your utility company.
Advocate for green building design for new construction.
Encourage outdoor play and programs that support access to nature for children.
Consider an electric vehicle or electric bicycle.
Support your child if they want to get involved in a local green youth organization.
Choose the most environmentally friendly option when purchasing something.
Many of these healthpromoting actions are not affordable or available for all children and families, of course. Children of color and those in low-income communities are the least likely to have access to these resources. They also are more exposed to climate changes that worsen their health.
If you are concerned about health effects of climate change, talk to your pediatrician. All of us can work with community leaders to make sure that the voices and needs of all children are considered.