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Climate change is having direct and indirect impacts on the health of people. More extreme weather events, heat waves, spread of infectious diseases and detrimental impacts on air and water quality are having impacts on our health.

Research is underway to assess those most susceptible to the health impacts related to a changing climate and identify ways to reduce those impacts.

Researchers are working to:

Identify and characterize communities and people at greatest risk to the impacts of climate change and air pollution.

Assess the individual and synergistic impacts of climate change and air quality on human health.

Develop approaches to assess the likelihood and effects of extreme events, including wildfires, floods, and heat waves, on human health.

Identify potential societal and behavioral responses to human health risks from climate change.

Related Resources

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Human Health and Climate Change Research | US EPA

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Climate change is having direct and indirect impacts on the health of people. More extreme weather events, heat waves, spread of infectious diseases and detrimental impacts on air and water quality are having impacts on our health. Research is underway to assess those most susceptible to the health impacts related to a changing climate and identify ways to reduce those impacts.

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By Emebet A. Jigssa with contributions from the IGAD Climate Change Technical Working Group
Earth satellite image imitation abstarct-Emebet A. Jigssa

The global impact of climate change has become increasingly apparent, leading to an urgent need for collective action. While scientific reports and policy advancements play a crucial role, it is equally important to recognize the power of art in raising awareness and mobilizing individuals. Art has the unique ability to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and create a profound connection between individuals and the environment.

Art serves as a potent instrument for increasing awareness, fostering emotional connections, and motivating efforts to tackle the climate change crisis. Through visual tales, art may communicate complex climate science and challenges. Inspiring images, artworks, visual stories, infographics, and illustrations can help increase public understanding of climate concepts, statistics and their impacts on people and ecosystems.

The role of art in the global climate change movement is to deepen personal engagement by providing new platforms for reflection and discourse (Amanda Gorsegner, 2016).

Climate change art is a form of artistic expression that aims to address topics related to climate change and its impact on the environment, society, and the world as a whole. (Zoë Lescaze 2022). While the genre has been around for many years, its prominence and visibility have significantly grown since the early 21st century, coinciding with the increasing concerns surrounding climate change.

As the urgency to address climate change became a global issue, artists recognized the power of their creative talents in raising awareness and provoking thought on the subject. Although there isn't a specific starting point for climate change art, its prevalence in the art world has steadily increased since the 2000s. Climate change art takes many different forms, each offering a unique medium for expressing the urgent need for action. These forms include visual storytelling, geospatial maps, visual arts, performing arts, film and media, and street art and installations.
Visual Storytelling
Visual storytelling is one of the key contributions that art brings to the table in climate communication is a potent tool for increasing the public's understanding and interest in complex climate science and issues. Artists and designers can help with this effort by creating eye-catching illustrations, infographics, and visuals.

Art is a powerful storyteller. Artists can tell the stories of communities affected by climate change, the challenges of activists, or the possibility for a more sustainable future through paintings, sculptures, photos, or even performance art. These tales might humanize the problem and make it relatable. (Muhammed Badamasi and Idongesit Amba, 2022).
Geospatial Maps
Geospatial maps are informative tools that showcase the distribution of climatic events i such as hurricanes, droughts, and areas vulnerable to sea level rise. The East Africa Hazards Watch, developed by the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Center, is a valuable resource for exploring climate data and enhancing awareness of climate-related risks in the region.
Visual Arts
Artists have the ability to depict landscapes altered by global warming, melting icebergs, or the devastating impact of natural disasters. Through their work, visual artists can serve as powerful reminders of the consequences of our actions, evoking a sense of urgency and encouraging viewers to consider their role in protecting and preserving nature.
Performing Arts
Performing arts, such as theater, dance, and music, have the capacity to engage audiences on both emotionally and intellectually levels. Climate change-focused performances utilize movement, sound, and narrative to convey the interconnectedness between humans and the environment. By employing compelling storytelling and immersive experiences, these performances inspire empathy, provoke thought, and encourage people to reflect on their relationship with the planet. They also provide valuable forums for discussions and community engagement around climate action.

Climate Change Theatre Action performance at the University of Colorado, fall 2017. Photo by Beth Osnes.
Film and Media
Film and media hold immense potential for reaching broad audiences and conveying complex messages effectively. Documentaries and short films centered around climate change shed light on the global crisis through compelling narratives, interviews, and captivating visuals.

These films can educate and motivate viewers to take action by highlighting the stories of those affected by climate change or showcasing innovative solutions and successful conservation efforts. Through online platforms and social media, film and media also enable widespread sharing and discussions about climate-related issues.

Street Art and Installations
Street art holds the ability to reach beyond traditional art spaces, bringing its message directly to the public. Murals, graffiti, and art installations in public spaces can serve as powerful showcases for climate activism. Street artists use their creativity to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and provoke conversations around climate change. These ephemeral forms of art illustrate the transient nature of our environment and the urgency for action in a visually striking and accessible manner. The role of art in initiatives against climate change and its unique contributions.
Emotional Impact
Climate change can often feel abstract, leading some individuals to remain detached or indifferent. However, art has the potential to bridge this emotional gap by tapping into our innate capacity for empathy. Paintings, sculptures, and other artistic expressions have the power to evoke emotions, spark introspection, and create a deep sense of connection to the Earth and its ecosystems. By fostering this emotional connection, art can motivate individuals to take meaningful action against climate change.
Raising Awareness
Art has a remarkable ability to capture attention and tell stories that words alone may struggle to convey. Through captivating visuals, thought-provoking installations, and compelling performances, art can bring complex issues such as climate change to the forefront of public consciousness.

Artists have the power to present scientific findings in a compelling and accessible manner, providing a platform for conversations and fostering understanding among diverse audiences.

Cultural Reflection and Community Building
Art reflects culture and society. Artists often engage with climate change by incorporating environmental themes into their work, helping to integrate climate consciousness into cultural discourse. Collaborative art projects involving artists, scientists, and activists can bridge gaps in understanding and communication between different sectors of society.

Art can help translate scientific findings into actionable messages. Creating and appreciating art is a communal activity. Climate-related art projects can bring communities together to work toward common goals, share ideas, and discuss solutions. This fosters a sense of belonging and collective responsibility (Julia Bentz, 2020).
Advocacy and Activism
Artists frequently use their platforms to advocate for climate action. They create art that sends a clear message about the urgency of addressing climate change, pushing for policy changes, and advocating for sustainable practices. Many artists are also activists. They use their work to raise awareness and mobilize support for climate action. Art can serve as a rallying point for environmental movements, as seen in protests and marches featuring climate-related artwork and installations.

In Nairobi, Kenya, for example, there have been several impactful murals and street art pieces that promote awareness and understanding of climate change. For instance, the "Green City in the Sun" Mural. Located in a low-income area in Nairobi, this mural portrays a vision of Nairobi as a sustainable and green city. It incorporates images of trees, solar panels, and bicycles to promote conservation.

This mural is one of two in Kibera, showing how to use the new forecasts produced by Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) to take preventative action prior to high impact weather

This is an example of the diverse and inspiring murals and street art pieces in Nairobi that raise awareness about climate change. They serve as visual reminders of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices, encouraging individuals to take action and contribute to a greener future.
Education and Engagement
Art can be used as an educational tool, particularly in schools and community programs. Climate-themed art projects can engage students and community members in learning about climate issues creatively and interactively.

In Uganda, climate change is predicted to lead to heavier rainfall, more unpredictable rainy seasons, and more frequent droughts, impacting both ecosystems and local inhabitants. The population of Uganda lacks access to knowledge about the dangers posed by climate change as well as what can be done.

In order to improve the situation within the community, The Kabarole Research and Resource Centre, along with private sector partners in Uganda tarted an annual Street Art Climate Change Exhibition in Fort Portal in 2012. Uganda also rallies local and regional governments, the commercial sector, and social entrepreneurs to address the risks posed by climate change in the Rwenzori region. With its visual displays of climate change art, cost-effective lighting, and clean energy cooking technologies, the exhibition, which focuses on clean and efficient energy, attracted a number of significant actors in the energy sector as well as the local populace ( UNFCCC News 2023).

An art piece exhibited at the 2nd Fort Portal Annual Street Art Exhibition on Climate Change (Photo: Christopher Busiinge/KRRC
Visualizing Solution
Art can go beyond highlighting problems and also depict potential solutions to climate change. This can inspire hope and encourage people to participate in sustainable practices, including actions to adapt and mitigate against climate change. Art serves as a powerful medium to educate communities about the simple steps they can take in their daily lives to combat the climate crisis. By leveraging creative expression, artists can enlighten individuals on practical actions they can integrate into their daily routines. These actions include reducing waste, conserving energy and water, adopting sustainable transportation methods, and making environmentally conscious choices.
Innovation and Creativity
Art encourages innovative thinking and creativity. Artists often come up with unconventional solutions and ideas that can inspire new approaches to addressing climate change.
Long-Term Impact and Global Reach
Art has the potential to create lasting impressions. Climate-themed art can continue to raise awareness and inspire action long after it is created. It can become part of cultural heritage and a symbol for future generations. Art knows no boundaries. Climate change is a global issue, and art can transcend language and cultural barriers to convey its message to diverse audiences worldwide.

Artists such as Robel Temesgen from Ethiopia have joined forces with climate scientists to create a series of paintings that establish a connection between the country's ancient rainmaking rituals and climate change. By promoting collaboration between artists and scientists, innovative strategies to address climate change can be pursued. These interdisciplinary partnerships enable a greater comprehension of the issue, offering fresh insights into its root causes as well as potential solutions (Momma.org, April 2023).

Conceptual sketch of a tree nursery shaped like a lion as part of ROBA's "Trees for Life" project in Ethiopia (photo courtesy the Rural Organization for Betterment of Agro-Pastoralists and Earth Art Studio

Art plays a multifaceted role in climate change campaigns by raising awareness, fostering empathy, advocating for action, and offering innovative solutions. Its ability to connect with people on an emotional level and make climate change tangible can be a driving force in mobilizing society to address this critical global issue.

Art is a potent tool for climate change campaigns because it can make the issue more accessible, relatable, and emotionally resonant. It can inspire individuals and communities to take action, whether through personal lifestyle changes, activism, or support for policies that address climate change.

The complicated and critical issues of climate change can be effectively communicated through art, which can also motivate people to take action to address this global issue. Artists continue to engage audiences and spread awareness of the value of environmental preservation and sustainable practices by using their talents.

While the challenges posed by climate change are complex, the inclusion of art in initiatives against it offers a unique perspective and transformative potential. By raising awareness, inspiring empathy, promoting dialogue, instigating behavioral change, and envisioning alternative futures, art can galvanize individuals and communities to engage in sustainable action. As we unite to combat climate change, let us not overlook the creative and transformative power of art in building a sustainable, resilient future.

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How can art amplify efforts to address climate change?

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The global impact of climate change has become increasingly apparent, leading to an urgent need for collective action. While scientific reports and policy advancements play a crucial role, it is...

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We all play a role in preserving our shared planet

Every decision we make is an opportunity to play an important role in preserving our shared planet.

The climate crisis is the clearest example of how our impact as humans, consumers, and voters can be felt on the natural world.

Factory farming is almost always overlooked as a climate culprit, yet it's factory farming that rips down forests to plant crops for animal feed - releasing carbon into the atmosphere. And it's factory farming that devastates wildlife habitats, displaces local communities, and profits from the cruel treatment of billions of farmed animals each year.

What we do in our everyday lives, through the choices we make, has an impact.
Together, we can make a positive change for our climate, protect precious habitats, support local communities, and release billions of animals from a life of cruelty and pain. One by one.

Add more plants to your diet

High profile Canadians and World Animal Protection ambassadors, like Jann Arden, Siobhan Williams, and Candice Batista have shared their favourite ways to go "meatless" for a meal.

Adding another meatless day to your week can have a big impact on your carbon footprint and help animals, but sometimes the extra planning to change our habits take too much effort in our already busy lives. That's why some amazing animal and eco-friendly Canadians are giving you a little extra inspiration.
View recipes

Learn more about the impacts of climate change on animals, people, and the planet
The impacts of climate change can be felt around the world. Wildlife is affected. Farm animals are affected. And people are affected.
In Kajiado County, Kenya, a three-year drought has caused the death of dozens of animals and affected the local people's livelihoods. As a result, pastoralists (animal caretakers) are being forced to buy hay and food instead of relying on the natural ecosystems like they could have in the past.

Streams that used to supply water for irrigation have completely dried up. Cattle are dying of starvation, and the local people are experiencing severe food shortages.

Climate change poses a fundamental threat to animals, communities, and people's livelihoods.

Jaguar cub rescued from Brazil fires gets new chance at life

Devastating fires across Brazil caused wildlife like jaguars to lose their habitat and so much more. Sadly, most of Brazil's wildfires are started deliberately by the factory farming industry to clear land.

Xamã, a male jaguar cub, was less than six months old when he was found alone, extremely weak, and dehydrated. He would not have survived much longer on his own. Luckily, he was found in time and brought to our partners at the Instituto Ecótono to receive treatment and recover.
Continue reading Xama's success story and watch his magnificent return to the wild. Read more

By the numbers

Animal agriculture accounts for a whopping 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions and is the main source of methane and nitrous oxides.

Agriculture alone has been identified as a threat to 86% of species at risk of extinction. Our food system is the primary driver of biodiversity loss.

Meat and dairy are not efficient. While meat and dairy provide just 18% of calories and 37% of protein, they use 83% of farmland.

Sign up to make change with us

Join us as we work to transform the lives of animals. By joining our community you'll receive updates and resources that will help you make informed decisions when animals are involved. Sign up today!

Explore how your choices can impact animals, people, and the planet:

Help us transform the world so that all life can thrive.
Donate now

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Our world is changing. The climate crisis means more wildfires, floods, and droughts that could destroy habitats, kill millions of animals, and displace millions of people. But with small actions today, we can make a difference together.

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There are many things, big and small, that we can all do to help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and build resilient communities in the face of climate change. Click to expand each section below to explore our resources and programs. Find out how you can be part of the solution.

Take Action

At home

Climate Action To Go Kits are free to borrow activity kits that can help you learn about how to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions at home.

Home Energy Navigator is a regional service that helps homeowners take the next step, regardless of where they are in their retrofit journey. Participants are connected with an Energy Concierge, who can provide support throughout a retrofit project.

Better Homes BC helps British Columbians find rebates for renovating or building a home to save energy and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Heat pump rebate top-ups are available for residents switching from fossil fuel to electric powered heating.

Energy Coach is a free coaching service offered through Better Homes BC. Receive building-science based information about the options and opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of your home or building.

Certified Energy Advisors can give you expert, independent, and customized advice about improving your home's energy efficiency through energy saving upgrades.

On the go

Get moving and reduce your carbon emissions by biking, walking, or taking public transit.

Take advantage of rebates to make your next vehicle an electric one.

The charging network is growing in BC! Find out where you can charge electric vehicles:

In the kitchen

What we eat and where we get our food has climate impacts. Consider ways to reduce your individual contribution through food by:

Eat less meat and dairy

Eat in season and buy local. View our Fresh Food Calendar to check what is in season

Grow your own food

Try not to waste food and always compost your kitchen scraps. Visit lovefoodhatewaste.ca for tips and tricks.

Resources for Educators & School Programs

Cool It! Climate Leadership Training

The CRD partners with the BC Sustainable Energy Association to deliver climate education to elementary students in the region. The Cool It! Climate Leadership Training programs teaches students about climate change and identifies how they can become a part of the solution.

Walk & Wheel to School

The Walk and Wheel to School initiative is a fun and free offering for schools in the capital region. Its goal is to support schools to celebrate and encourage students and their families to choose active travel for all or part of their usual commute to school by offering a variety of free resources to help schools run celebratory event(s) when most convenient for them. Check out our Walk & Wheel to School Activity Guidebook.

Resources for Businesses & Workplaces

Rebates & Incentives

Clean BC Better Buildings provides funding and capital incentives to encourage energy efficient design, construction and renovation of commercial buildings.

Rebate and incentive programs for businesses to upgrade equipment to improve energy efficiency are available from both BC Hydro and Fortis BC.

You can also check out these energy saving tips for your business or workplace.

Vancouver Island Green Business Certification

The Vancouver Island Green Business Certification (VIGBC) program is a unique way to recognize and award the efforts of small and medium sized businesses that are taking action to reduce waste, paper usage, water and energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and furthering social responsibility in the community.For businesses, the certification is a guide to greening your operations and educating staff. For consumers, it is a symbol that lets you know which businesses have green practices and shop sustainably with confidence.

ClimateSmart Training

The Climate Smart Business Program is a unique training program delivered to small and medium sized enterprises to help businesses measure their corporate greenhouse gas emissions. The goal is to support organizations from a variety of sectors to better understand corporate energy and fuel use. In addition to three group training workshops, Climate Smart provides one on one coaching to help participants identify the best ways to reduce their impact through policy changes, technology adoption and behaviour change programs.

Reports & Data

Check out our reports and data on climate change, like our Coastal Flood Inundation Mapping Project or our Community Energy and Emissions Inventory.

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There are many things, big and small, that we can all do to help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and build resilient communities in the face of climate change. Click to expand each section below to explore our resources and programs. Find out how you can be part of the solution.