Abstract #3 SESSION: Global climate change: Partnerships for public health action

Background: The importance of developing and implementing policies to mitigate climate change at the local, state and federal levels is underscored by international efforts to reduce health risks related to global climate change. Concerted action to strengthen key features of US public health systems and to promote healthy environmental policies can enhance public health outcomes, and reduce vulnerability to future climate change.

Methods: This presentation will describe the current legislative and policy challenges and initiatives facing nurses and other public health professionals concerned about global climate change, and will provide information about opportunities for policy change at the U.S. and international levels. Public health activities appropriate to addressing climate change will be discussed and potential partners in the advocacy community including nursing, occupational, and environmental groups will discuss possible strategies for action.

Results: Partnership goals for action will be developed with Occupational, Environmental, and Public Health Nursing Sections of APHA to address global climate change and public health issues through advocating for effective, sustainable policy solutions.

Conclusions: Partnership goals will be written by members of the Occupational, Environmental, and Public Health Nursing Sections of APHA, and will provide the first formal collaborative initiative within APHA to address global climate change and public health. This partnership has the potential for broadening to include other sections, and has as a greater likelihood for sustainability due to the collaboration.