Mitigating Climate Change and Related Health Disparities in Minnesota

Doctoral Project

Jo Bjorgaard

University of Minnesota, School of Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice, Health Innovation and Leadership with a focus on Planetary Health

Executive Summary

Climate change has been recognized as the number one threat to public health around the globe (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [IPCC], 2022). Minnesotans are experiencing the effects of climate change including the contribution it makes to health disparities (Climate Minnesota, 2022). An increase in healthcare disparities is one cost of neglecting this problem, with disproportionate effects of climate-related events (extreme heat, wildfires, drought, flooding) on people of color, children, older adults, and low-income communities (EPA, 2022). The IPCC has called for an urgent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (2022). The “Next Generation Climate Act of 2021” would set feasible goals for Minnesota to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions and mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change (Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, 2022). By enacting this legislation Minnesota will work toward addressing the inequitable impacts of climate change.

Important Notes

The Issue

"The impacts of climate change such as extreme heat, poor air quality, and changing infectious disease patterns are a health risk to all humans. Minnesota is not currently meeting its targets to reduce GHG emissions"

Policy Option

"Minnesota Congress and residents should support the “Next Generation Climate Act of 2021,” which would implement a framework to help Minnesota become more resilient to climate change."

Rationale

"Minnesota was once a leading state in setting goals to reduce GHG emissions (HPHC, 2022). Over time, Minnesota has failed to meet its ambitious goals."

Final Word

"The impacts of climate change in Minnesota are becoming greater and time is running out to mitigate the collapse of our planet. Minnesota must act, with special consideration for justice and equity in its communities experiencing the effects of climate change across the state."