Through direct experience, New Jerseyans are becoming increasingly aware of the extent to which climate change impacts our health. The wildfire smoke coming from eastern Canada during the summer of 2023 and the extreme heat during the summer of 2024 are two recent and vivid examples. Unfortunately, the range of impacts we can expect is far greater then what we are experiencing so far.

 

More than a decade ago, the Center for Disease Control developed the diagram shown below. It concisely illustrates the breadth and scale of what will happen if society does not act at a scale and speed commensurate to the threat.  Specific to New Jersey, an excellent place to look for information on these impacts is the Rutgers NJ Climate Resource Center.

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For In recent years, much needed attention has been given to health equity and environmental justice issues.  As physician Cheyrl Holder eloquently argues here, vulnerable populations are hit first and are the least able to get back on their feet. This Rutgers report is another excellent introduction to the equity issues.

 

For additional resources describing the health impacts of climate change and carbon pollution, click here.​