The climate emergency: where is health care?

Health care professionals and organizations have attempted to advance sound climate policies through educational efforts including conferences, symposia, webinars, and policy and scientific statements. Unfortunately, these approaches have failed to make a substantial impression on the public or elected officials. In view of rapid environmental degradation, our industry must urgently marshal every resource at its command to protect patients and communities. The power and influence of health care can offset pressures and retribution from entrenched fossil fuel interests. Ethically, the shared mission of our industry is saving lives, reducing suffering, and promoting the best possible health for all. We have the expertise and obligation to help reduce the health impacts of climate disruption. As leaders, we must move our organizations from passive concern to active engagement in fighting for a healthy future.