Getting Started

First Steps

Climate change is perhaps the most complex public health challenge we face. There are countless ways in which we need to take action, both as individuals and as public health agencies. Where do we start?

Start by watching some videos

How Climate Change Affects Community Health

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created this video. It presents the challenges of climate-related changes such as more frequent episodes of extreme heat, storms, and flooding; poor air quality, and the spread of disease—and how we can address those changes. (2020)

How Climate Change Affects Community Health (4:37 minutes)

Building Oregon's Climate Resilience: A video series for public health professionals

These short animated “explainer videos" were developed by OHA's Climate and Health Program to orient public health professionals to climate and health work. (2017)

Next, become familiar with Oregon's Climate and Health Report and what Local Public Health Authorities can do

Climate and Health in Oregon (PDF) OHA Public Health Division (2020)
Climate Change, Health and Equity: A Guide for Local Health Departments (PDF) Public Health Institute and the American Public Health Association (2018)
For a deeper dive, see our Publications Page.