In this episode of the Healthy Desert Healthy You podcast, host Will Dean welcomes Ryan Sendejas, a climate change assessment lead author with UC Riverside Environmental Science. Ryan shares insights on the significant impacts of climate change in the Coachella Valley and the broader inland deserts region. He explains the difference between natural climate variations and anthropogenic climate change, emphasizing the urgency for communities to build resiliency against its effects. Listeners will learn about the health implications of climate change, including respiratory illnesses and heat-related conditions, particularly affecting disadvantaged populations. Ryan discusses the need for collective action and advocacy to address these pressing issues and shares practical steps individuals can take to contribute to a healthier environment. Join us for an enlightening conversation on climate resilience, community health, and the importance of hope in the face of challenging environmental changes.

Takeaways:

• Climate change is primarily driven by human activity, particularly greenhouse gas emissions.

• The Coachella Valley faces increasing temperatures and extreme heat days due to climate change.

• Communities must focus on resilience strategies to mitigate climate impacts.

• Disadvantaged populations are disproportionately affected by climate change and extreme heat.

• Air quality issues in the Coachella Valley are linked to climate change and weather anomalies.

• Advocacy and community engagement are crucial for addressing climate-related health issues.

• Individual actions can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions over time.

• Building coalitions among residents, experts, and leaders can foster effective climate action.

#HealthyDesertHealthyYouPodcast #WillDean #DesertHealthcareDistrictAndFoundation #CoachellaValley #RiversideCounty #RyanSendejas#UCRiversideEnvironmentalScience #ClimateChange #CommunityHealth #Sustainability #EnvironmentalJustice #PublicHealth #Resiliency #GreenhouseGas #AirQuality #HealthImpacts #Advocacy #SocialEquity #ClimateAction #Hope #EnvironmentalScience #ClimateResilience