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Alicia Johnson, Physicians for Social Responsibility, unknown, unknown, DC 55555, 202-667-4260, ajohnson@psr.org
Naturally occurring greenhouse gases help the Earth’s atmosphere trap heat, making them a vital part of our ecosystem. Human activities including the production and combustion of fossil fuels, however, release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in large quantities. In the U.S., fossil fuel use accounts for nearly 85 percent of our greenhouse gas emissions. When we alter the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere in this way, its balanced composition changes. Thus, more heat is trapped in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
Global warming is likely to manifest in a variety of health impacts. A recent World Health Organization report, Climate Change and Human Health: Risks and Responses, supports the conclusions of the International Panel on Climate Change, predicting increases in vector-borne diseases and malnutrition, as well as a variety of other health-related impacts due to global climate change. The report estimates that 150,000 people die annually due to climate change; furthermore, as concentrations of greenhouse gas increase, so will the death toll.
Learning Objectives:
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.