Strategies to Build Healthy, Equitable, Climate-Resilient Communities
1. Clean and Resilient Energy System
Clean and renewable electricity, distributed energy generation, and a smart grid deliver clean air, improve health, and create a disaster-resilient energy supply.
2. Green Infrastructure and Smart Surfaces
Parks, green spaces, green roofs, reflective surfaces and porous pavements improve mental and physical health. They provide places for recreation, cool neighborhoods, manage stormwater, and reduce disaster damage.
3. Regenerative Agriculture
Planting climate-tolerant crops, protecting biodiversity, regenerating soil, and reducing pesticides and chemical use deliver a more resilient, healthy food supply and reduce carbon emissions.
4. Emergency Preparedness and Response
Climate-resilient public infrastructure, forecasting capacity, early warning systems, evacuation plans, and centers of refuge from extreme weather, heat and smoke build community.
5. Healthy and Active Transportation
Robust public transit; space for safe walking, cycling, and wheeling; and low-carbon transport (e.g. electric vehicles) promote physical activity, reduce pollution, and support community connectedness.
6. Strong Communities
Community cohesion can protect people from climate risks, support disaster response, and improve health. Inclusive, community-engaged planning promotes more equitable and just resilience solutions.