Climate and Human Health Commission

Climate has a profound effect on human well-being, and scientists around the world are exploring the many impacts of climate and weather on human health.  Whether examining how pollution impacts respiratory distress or how temperature can impact mental health, gaining a deeper understanding of these important relationships is vital to improving human health and well-being.  The goal of the Climate and Human Health Commission is to further investigate these linkages, and more specifically, the primary mission of the Commission is:

• To identify the interaction between atmospheric variables (air temperature, wind, humidity, atmospheric pressure, radiation fluxes, precipitation, extreme events, climate change, etc.) and human health.
• To clarify the causal mechanisms in which these interactions affect human health and well-being.
• To develop and promote health guidelines and new technologies for the prevention of negative health outcomes.
• To conduct scientific research on bioweather forecasting and related services.

Research Items

ISB scientists are currently working on a variety of climate-health projects. These include:

• New research lines related to bioweather forecasting
• Climate, weather, and mental health
• Climate, health, and geographic information technologies
• Health warning systems
• Climate change and health
• Vector-borne diseases
• Extreme climatic events, ranging from heat waves to tropical cyclones
• Sanitation
• Deprivation indices, welfare, and climate
• Interaction between climate, air pollution, and health
• Atmospheric circulation patterns and corresponding human health impact
• Indoor and workplace biometeorology

For more information about the Human Health Commission, please contact Adam Kalkstein  (Adam.Kalkstein{at}westpoint.edu) who serves as Commission Chair.