Protecting Our Future
Ensuring health requires innovative solutions and forward-thinking technologies. By addressing the interconnected challenges of environmental and social equity, we are developing new methods and approaches that drive healthy futures and This requires reimagining traditional systems, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and fostering creative collaboration for healthy communities.
Improved Health Through Active, Walkable Communities
Improved Health Through Active, Walkable Communities
- Expanding walkability and creating spaces for active transportation (e.g., bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly areas) can help reduce the reliance on vehicles, lowering carbon emissions. Additionally, outdoor physical activity can reduce healthcare burdens related to climate-related illnesses (e.g., heat stress, respiratory issues), enhancing the overall health of the population.
- Increaseing the number of parks, urban forests, or green roofs, could not only provide respite from extreme heat but also enhance residents’ well-being by offering cooling, stress-reducing environments. Green spaces can reduce urban heat island effects, improving the microclimate and offering residents safe places to cool off during extreme weather events.
- Fostering strong community networks can help mobilize collective action for public health, such as organizing neighborhood cooling centers, distributing resources during extreme heat events, and implementing local green infrastructure projects (e.g., urban gardens or tree planting). These social networks can play a critical role in both preparedness for heat.
- Draw from this principle by promoting local, sustainable food production through community gardens, farmers' markets, and urban agriculture. Supporting these efforts can reduce the city's food vulnerability, while also support Phoenix local farmers and growers.
- Integrating multiple energy sources such as solar panels, which is particularly relevant in a region with abundant sunshine. Transitioning to clean energy can reduce the city’s carbon footprint while providing energy security during climate-related disruptions, such as power outages caused by heat waves or storms. Public health outcomes improve as air quality improves and residents are less exposed to heat-related power failures.
