Climate change, also referred to as global warming, can be described as an environmental phenomenon caused by the rising greenhouse gas emissions due to human activity. The increasing rates of greenhouse gas emissions leads to higher averages in global temperatures and changes to environmental and human systems (Garg et al 2020). The changing climate results in longer and more intense summers and winters, harsh storms, rises in sea levels, increasing frequency in severe droughts, and reduced air quality. In addition to the detrimental effects that climate change has on the environment, it is arguably considered to be one of the greatest public health threats of our time (Garg et al 2020).

Like other social determinants of health (SDOH), climate change contributes to worsening health, increasing healthcare costs, and disproportionately affects underprivileged and underfunded communities. Those living in vulnerable communities are at increased risk for the negative impacts of climate change. Impacts include symptoms of worsening asthma, respiratory or cardiovascular complications from air pollution, increased risk of vector or waterborne disease, trauma from natural disasters, mental health symptoms, anxiety, and accessibility barriers to clean water and adequate food (Garg et al 2020).