NRDC Issue Brief: Climate Change and Health in Washington

Washingtonians face a variety of health threats, including more heat-related illnesses, increased risk of breathing and heart problems from smoke exposure, food and water contamination, traumatic injuries, mental health problems from flooding and other weather extremes, and increased exposure to infectious diseases. These threats will only worsen as transportation systems and big polluters continue to pump climate-changing emissions into the air.

Washingtonians can protect themselves from these threats by moving to a cleaner and more efficient energy and transportation system and preparing more effectively for future climate and health crises. Washington’s communities and health departments must also have the resources and capacity to deal with present-day health threats. DOWNLOAD PDF>