“From a professional standpoint, working in urban public health offers many opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary and cross-sector collaborations, driving science into real-world impact, which is something I am passionate about. On a personal level, I am fully aware that those of us living in wealthy countries bear the greatest responsibility for the climate crisis. This awareness drives me to actively contribute to urgent solutions that protect and promote health and well-being in the face of global climate change.”

“I really enjoy the scientific challenge and working with “big data”, but I’m also driven by my ethical concerns about the future we’re building for the next generations. Framing climate change through the lens of human health makes it more relatable for people and politicians – and the co-benefits of climate action have a huge potential to cascade into sustainability and nature protection. As societies increasingly experience the effects of climate change and start to understand the risks, this awareness can shape political priorities, scientific research and technological development – which I find very motivating.”

“My research focuses on environmental exposures like air pollution, pollen, and urban green spaces – factors that are all interconnected. Trees and green areas are important to cool our cities and provide shade, but smart planning is essential so that we get to enjoy co-benefits like increased biodiversity, lower air pollution and more opportunities for physical activity, while avoiding highly allergenic pollen. Investing in climate-resilient public spaces and making it easier for people to walk, cycle, or use public transport are great forms of health prevention. If we do it right, the health benefits are bigger and more equitable than any treatment you can get at a doctor’s office.”

“As a public health institute, we have to ask ourselves: how can climate and health research lead to real change? I strongly believe our greatest impact is through policy-relevant data, such as informing urban planners on how to design healthier cities. With the evidence we produce, coupled with strong science communication, we can support people shifting towards more sustainable lifestyles. Working closely with study participants through cohort studies brings us closer to this goal – and gives me hope for a healthier, more sustainable future.”

“Rising temperatures may increase pest infestations and lead to greater pesticide use, increasing exposure risks for farm workers, their children, and nearby communities. My research focuses specifically on how pesticide exposure factors including both behavioural and environmental affect the reproductive health of children. By understanding the pathways and impacts of the pesticide exposure, we can better address environmental health risks that are indirectly fuelled by climate change.”

“There is growing awareness of the health risks posed by extreme heat and the urgent need for action. Initiatives are emerging to address these risks, but the pace of implementing adaptation and mitigation measures is still too slow. Rather than relying on hope alone, I believe we must find a way to drive change by working across disciplines and with stakeholders to build shared understanding, shape common visions, and co-develop solutions that protect health, reduce inequalities, and respond to one of the most pressing challenges of our time.”

“Despite the challenges – like misinformation, siloed efforts, and declining funding – there is hope. Communities are becoming more aware of the health impacts posed by climate change, and governments are increasingly introducing climate related policies. When we combine indigenous knowledge with government actions, we can create climate-resilient health systems. The growing number of young researchers, greater public engagement, and a shift in global conversations highlighting climate change as a health issue give me confidence that together, we’re moving in the right direction.”

“Climate change is shifting mosquito habitats and expanding the risk of disease to new regions – but what gives me hope is the steady progress in research, innovation, and collaboration. Advances in mosquito control strategies, such as genetic modification, improved insecticides, and biological control methods, are providing new tools to combat vector-borne diseases more effectively. Many mosquito borne diseases are preventable, and with ongoing scientific advancements and continued global commitment, I believe we can reduce their burden and improve global health.”