Environmental changes, society, culture and health
The WiES event brought together a broad range of people, predominantly but not exclusively women, to discuss environmental issues that affect our society and how these might be mitigated.
Ann Webb / Professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester
Key outcomes from the conference session
Acknowledgment that women and children are the most vulnerable to climate change effects.
Women can be more susceptible to disease, especially young children and pregnant women, and women frequently take the burden of providing food, water and care for the family.
Increase awareness/promote effective communication to diverse groups in ways that are inclusive.
Children are a good conduit to engage and educate families, and to raise awareness of environmental issues.
Background
Higher temperatures and increasing air pollution are two major environmental challenges that have the potential to affect human health across the globe.
International and political will may be required to reduce the climate challenge, but local initiatives can be used to reduce and mitigate the impacts where they are occurring, protecting local people and their environment.
Discussion
At the 2019 conference session, Professor Ann Webb from the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (The University of Manchester) facilitated a session in order to discuss the following questions:
- How can we educate women, particularly those in disadvantaged communities, to respond to environmental changes in a sustainable way whilst also protecting the health and well-being of themselves and their families?
- How can we partner with (local) groups to reduce environmental impact on women and children?
