(Tehran Times, 2017)
As Earth Day is approaching, it is essential to address the issue of climate change. Climate change can have various impacts on human health, which is why it is crucial for healthcare professionals, such as nurses, to reduce health risks influenced by climate change by educating and advocating for their communities, as well as future generations. I believe that nurses, such as myself, can become prepared to address the effects of climate change that are likely to be experienced in my community by applying evidence-based research related to climate change into our practices.
(CDC, 2014)
The nursing community can use our trusted voices about health to strengthen climate change policies and practices by participating in organizations, promoting the use of environmentally safer products, reducing the use of products harmful to the environment, encouraging sustainable food purchasing, and advocating for vulnerable communities. Moreover, nurses can educate patients, as well as friends and families to reduce the health effects of climate change. More importantly, nurses must take the initiative to apply the knowledge of climate change and adapt the practices into our own lives to bring more awareness to the people around us.
Energy and Health
While the production of energy has a significant impact on the environment, human health and the well-being of many communities, I would say I am pretty comfortable with transitioning to sustainable and healthier energy choices. Currently, my house has solar panels installed, which I think is a big step. However, I can understand that renewable energy might not be feasible for everyone considering the cost, which is why I am in favor of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals of "ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy."
Regarding incentives, the City of San Francisco established the GoSolarSF Incentive that "provides a monetary incentive to help residents and businesses install solar panels." The goal of the program is to reduce electricity bills and the city's carbon footprint. Furthermore, low-come residents can participate in the program as well, where customers can "save up to 100% off the installed cost of a solar electric system."
Hello Candy. Very interesting post, especially when you talked about the role of nurses to address the effects of climate change by applying evidence-based researches in the community or educating next generation.
ReplyDeleteI think you are a good role model as a nurse to educate others in consuming healthier energy choice because you installed solar panel for your house.