By Melanie Stewart

For the past two weeks we spoke about the Climate Change talks in Paris and why they are important, as well as reasons for hope.

As we find ways to make changes in our own lives to be part of the solution, I think it’s important to remember that as a healthcare institution, our mission galvanizes us to “create a healthy future for all individuals and communities”.  Ameliorating the effects of global warming protects and improves health.

The Lancet calls climate change “the biggest global health threat of the 21^st century” as asthma will increase, asthma attacks will be more severe, we will have more heat related maladies, more allergens, and increased water and vector-borne diseases.  And it’s expensive: from 2002 to 2009 healthcare costs exceeded $14 Billion, and that’s just from 6 major events.

Now there’s a new reason to be hopeful: the Climate Change talks yielded an agreement.

No, it’s not perfect, I don’t think anybody will tell you that.  It is impressive that 195 different countries were able to come together and create a plan that they all agreed to in two weeks!  Before going into the talks the United Nations secretary general, Ban Ki-moon, said there was “no Plan B” and he’s right, we are at a tipping point and action needs to be taken.

Action is needed and this plan should put that into effect.  When exactly a tipping point will take place is hard to predict as it’s determined by things that haven’t happened yet.  This means several models have to be run to come up with these scenarios.  Unfortunately virtually all predictions feel this deal, should it be fully enacted, will still not keep us under the 2 degree mark that scientists have called for.

It’s important to note that, once signed, it’s legally binding, but it’s not a treaty.  This means getting money for change will still require legislative action.  While there’s worry that this can hamper our economy by forcing businesses to make changes, many predict that it will help businesses by decreasing costs in the long run, increasing efficiency, and expanding markets.

We have the ability to be innovative and find new technology that will make us better…new technology that can be sold to other countries to help them achieve their goals while strengthening our economy.

Read the Climate Change agreement/plan here.

by Melanie Stewart

In last week’s article, I spoke of the threat of climate change. It affects every aspect of our lives, from the weather, our health, our economy, our safety and even our existence on the planet. It’s imperative that we discuss climate change and make changes to prevent future damage, so we can mitigate the effects of damage already done. While it’s important to know the facts and projected effects, it’s a real downer to talk about.

But don’t despair, there’s hope.

The Climate Talks in Paris can lead to real change. The proposed efforts can save energy, tax dollars, make air and water cleaner, and ultimately keep average global temperatures from rising two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Many local leaders have pledged to do more than the proposed goals of the conference. The U.S. is helping to lead the discussion.

While these goals will change things for us, they will largely affect how governments, large energy companies, and large energy consumers operate.

That’s great, as that’s where the biggest impact will be most visible. But with more than 7 billion people on the planet, what can individuals do?

First, get educated. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a climatologist to understand. This brief, interactive, FAQ is a great place to start. National Geographic has put together a special issue in sections that include articles, videos, infographics, and — of course — great photos.

Second, don’t ever discount the effect you are having. Everything helps. You may not feel as if turning off your computer monitor does much to help, but when you do that every time you leave your desk, it adds up. The effect is multiplied when many others do the same.

Third, use less energy. You can do this by turning off lights, using energy efficient bulbs or thermostats, adding insulation, plugging leaks, flying less, consolidating trips, using public transportation, carpooling, walking, biking (TravelSmart anyone?), eating locally produced food, growing your own food, eating less meat, and monitoring your buying habits.

Finally, remember that while you are making these changes, not only are you literally saving the world (not bad for a day’s work), you are saving yourself money, saving tax dollars, cleaning the environment, and improving your health and the health of those around you.