Climate change also affects human health. Longer pollen seasons intensify allergies. Extreme heat increases the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness, especially for older adults and outdoor workers. Wildfire smoke has worsened air quality across regions far from the fires themselves.
Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, chief scientist at The Nature Conservancy, emphasizes that climate change is not only about ecosystems. “Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a human issue. It affects our health, our economy, and our communities.” Her work highlights that vulnerable communities often experience the greatest risks.
In cities, heat-trapping infrastructure creates “urban heat islands,” making already hot days more dangerous. Along coastlines, rising sea levels mean more frequent flooding on streets that once remained dry, disrupting commutes and damaging local businesses.