Results for: Climate Change

Researchers have assessed the global burden of stroke attributable to non-optimal temperatures and the implications of climate change. In 2019, over half a million stroke deaths and 9.42 million DALYs were attributed to non-optimal temperatures globally, with males having a higher burden than females and countries with high-middle SDI consistently showing the highest burden. The analysis revealed that population growth and aging increased the stroke burden, but epidemiological changes reduced it. Low temperatures contributed more to stroke deaths and DALYs than high temperatures worldwide in 2019, but high temperatures may increase in the future. SDI-related health inequalities of high temperature-attributable stroke burden were substantial, with higher SDI countries having a higher burden. Ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage attributable to non-optimal temperatures were the major contributors to stroke deaths and DALYs.

Several leading Indian companies, including Adani Green Energy, Sun Pharma, and Adani Energy Solutions, have pledged to achieve net-zero emissions in the coming decades. These companies recognize the urgency of addressing climate change and are committed to playing their part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The American Lung Association’s (ALA) latest report reveals a significant increase in particle pollution levels in the United States, with millions of people experiencing harmful air quality. The report is a comprehensive analysis of air pollution data from 2020-2022 and includes grades for both short-term and annual average particle pollution levels. Key findings include:
1. Spike in Particle Pollution: The report highlights a sharp increase in particle pollution spikes, with 65 million people living in areas that experienced unhealthy levels. This is the highest number reported in 14 years and a clear indication of the impact of climate change on air quality.
2. Annual Particle Pollution: More than 90 million people live in counties where year-round particle pollution levels exceed the new national air quality limit. This is a significant increase compared to last year’s report and shows that millions more people are breathing unhealthy air.
3. Health Impacts: Fine particulate matter, also known as PM2.5, can cause severe health problems, including asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, and lung cancer. The increase in particle pollution levels poses a significant threat to public health.
4. Ozone Pollution: While ozone pollution has generally improved across the nation, more than 100 million people still live with unhealthy ozone levels. Warmer temperatures driven by climate change make ozone formation more likely and more difficult to clean up.
5. Cleanest Cities: The report also recognizes the nation’s cleanest cities, which have experienced no high ozone or particle pollution days and rank among the lowest for year-round particle pollution levels.
The ALA urges the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set stricter national limits on ozone pollution to protect public health and drive cleanup efforts. The full report is available at [website link].

Japan is experiencing unusually high temperatures in April, with several cities recording temperatures typically not seen until mid-June. The Japan Meteorological Agency has attributed the elevated temperatures to a high-pressure system moving over the main island of Honshu, with forecasts indicating even hotter conditions over the summer. The escalating temperatures are raising concerns about their impact on human health, agriculture, fishing industries, and the increased likelihood of natural disasters.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have unveiled a new color-coded heat warning scale called “HeatRisk.” This tool combines weather forecasts with climate and heat-related health data to provide a seven-day heat forecast for any location across the country. The tool uses five different numerical “risk levels” to indicate the level of heat concern and risk of heat-related impacts for a particular location. The levels range from “little to no risk” to “extreme risk” and correspond to different colors, such as “red” meaning a major risk. The tool is designed to help Americans, especially those with increased health risks, stay safe when exposed to extreme heat. Users can access the HeatRisk tool through an interactive dashboard on the CDC website or by using the National Weather Service’s (NWS) mobile app.

On Monday, Coimbatore recorded a high of 40.8°C, the hottest day in the city since March 29, 1983. The minimum temperature was 26.1°C, higher than the normal average. While the maximum temperature is predicted to drop to 38°C over the next week, high humidity is expected. The extreme heat is causing concerns, impacting businesses, health, and daily activities.

Southern Greece is facing an influx of Saharan dust, turning the skies orange and triggering early wildfires. Strong southerly winds have transported the dust from North Africa, creating a surreal Martian-like atmosphere over Athens. Temperatures remain elevated in the south, reaching 30 degrees Celsius, while the north experiences cooler conditions. The wildfires, fanned by strong winds, have led to arrests on the island of Paros and control efforts near a naval base in Crete. Concerns are rising about a potentially challenging fire season due to persistent drought and high temperatures.

The Biden administration has announced new details of its plan to combat climate change and transition to clean energy. The plan includes a focus on protecting while also aiming to in the Southwest. The administration’s goal is to achieve specific targets by 2030.

A powerful ice wall pushed ashore by strong northwestern winds caused damage to homes and cottages in Twin Lakes Beach, Manitoba, over the weekend. The ice wall impacted boathouses, cottages, and decks, leaving residents facing significant cleanup and repair costs. While ice walls are not an annual occurrence, they have been a regular concern for residents in the area. The Rural Municipality (RM) of St. Laurent is providing assistance where possible, but many residents may be facing uninsured losses.

Oil and gas flaring, plastics pollution, and climate change are exposing Indigenous communities in the Arctic to toxic chemicals, leading to respiratory issues, cancer, and other health disparities. The upcoming Plastics Treaty negotiations in Ottawa are crucial for protecting human health and the environment, especially for Indigenous peoples who bear the brunt of environmental injustices. A treaty that controls plastic production and eliminates toxic chemicals would rectify these injustices and benefit fenceline communities and all who are exposed to toxic chemicals.