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Is Climate Change Making Us Sick with Saskia Salak
September 12, 2024 · 49 min

In this episode of What the Health, John Salak talks with Saskia Salak, a research scientist at NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab, about the immediate health impacts of climate change. They discuss the growing awareness of climate change, international disparities in understanding its causes and the tangible health risks such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues from worsening air quality and the mental health implications of climate change. 

Personal and governmental actions to mitigate and adapt to these changes and actionable steps individuals can take are highlighted. The discussion emphasizes climate justice and addressing the disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities.

00:00 Introduction to the Climate Change Debate

01:26 Personal Impact of Climate Change

02:04 Guest Introduction: Saskia Salak

02:48 Saskia's Journey into Climate Work

04:22 Awareness and Perception of Climate Change

07:53 Defining Climate Change

09:31 Mitigation, Adaptation and Geoengineering

11:38 Challenges in Accepting Climate Change

17:47 Personal Health Impacts of Climate Change

26:59 Understanding the Impact of Fossil Fuels on Climate Change

27:49 The Connection Between Climate Change and Health Issues

27:58 Climate Change and Skin Cancer

28:24 The Role of Ozone and Greenhouse Gases

29:22 Wildfires, Pollution and UV Radiation

30:25 Vector-Borne Diseases and Climate Change

31:43 Food and Water Scarcity

33:41 Mental Health and Climate Change

37:06 Climate Justice and Vulnerable Communities

39:02 China's Role in Climate Change

41:09 Personal Actions Against Climate Change

43:40 Misconceptions and Optimism About Climate Change

46:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Connect with NYU's Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab:

Website: https://www.sps.nyu.edu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NYUSPS_ECJS_Lab/ Linked-in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nyu-sps-center-for-global-affairs/