The College recognises that climate change can have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of rural and remote communities, and a personal impact on our members and on rural practice more broadly.
We note the recent release of the sixth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. These reports provide regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts and future risks, and option for adaption and mitigation. The report underscores the importance of taking action and shows that it is still possible to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all, if action is taken.
The College's position statement Recognising Climate Change as a Health Emergency provides a very broad outline of the key issues and the College response to the health impacts of climate change. We are now working to increase the range of information and resources we provide to members to support them should they wish to respond at a personal, professional or practice level.
More information will be published in further editions of Country Watch, but as a first step we encourage members to join the Climate Change and Health Discussion Group on Connect@ACRRM and initiate a discussion or share information and resources. You can also contact the policy team (policy@acrrm.org.au) with any questions or suggestions.