Year: 2024
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: This chapter examines the disproportionate impact of climate change on frontline communities, which are predominantly low-income and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) populations. These communities face heightened risks due to increased exposure to climate hazards, limited access to resources, and government neglect. The chapter emphasizes the need for equitable climate policies that prioritize the needs of frontline communities and addresses the health inequities exacerbated by climate change. This chapter discusses the challenges faced by frontline communities, the limitations of existing laws and regulations in addressing climate inequity, and the potential role of the Office of Climate Change and Health Equity (OCCHE) in shaping US climate policy. It also presents examples of states that have successfully integrated health equity into climate statutes. This chapter proposes three key policy approaches to reduce health inequity: involving frontline community advocates in climate policy development, strengthening public health responses, and increasing focus on the relationship between climate and health equity through public education, research, and targeted funding. This chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of embracing health equity as a cornerstone of climate policy, recognizing climate change and environmental justice as social determinants of health, and dedicating public health resources to support frontline communities.
Source: Wiley eBooks
Parent work: Achieving Health Equity: The Role of Law and Policy
Author: Y. Tony Yang
Institution: George Washington University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4404409796