Environmental Stewardship in Emergency Medicine

The climate crisis is not just an environmental issue; it is a pressing health crisis, much like the recent pandemic, that demands the urgent and immediate attention of the health care community. The escalating impact of climate change is profoundly affecting human health in numerous ways. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods, are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to increased injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Rising temperatures exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, while changing weather patterns contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. The continued degradation of natural resources and ecosystems disrupts food and water supplies, leading to malnutrition and waterborne diseases. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are disproportionately affected, highlighting the inequities in health outcomes exacerbated by climate change.

As health care professionals, we are on the front lines, witnessing the direct and indirect impacts of climate change on our patients and communities. It is our responsibility to recognize these challenges and respond proactively. By integrating climate awareness into our practices, advocating for sustainable policies, and educating our patients about the health risks associated with climate change, we can mitigate its effects and promote a healthier future.

This guidebook is our call to action on climate change. It provides an overview of the key factors contributing to the crisis facing our planet and offers recommendations for actions we in emergency medicine can take to create sustainable workplaces and reduce our negative impact on the environment. It also suggests ways to integrate 'green' approaches into our clinical work and advocate for changes in our communities. Above all, it highlights our responsibility as clinicians to better understand the inequitable effects of planetary health on patient health and to bring these issues to the attention of elected officials and the wider community.