Integrating climate change into behavioral medicine research: Lessons from physical activity researchers
Date: May 21, 2025
Webinar Description: Climate change and health are complexly interrelated, with issues of social equity at their intersection. Health behaviors may be impacted by climate change but may also serve as strategies for climate mitigation and adaptation. Behavioral medicine has opportunities and responsibilities to align with climate change research and focus on identifying solutions that improve climate, health, and equity. Yet, incorporating climate change into one’s existing research program may seem daunting. In this webinar, three behavioral science researchers from different career stages will discuss how they have blended climate change and physical activity in distinct ways in their research programs. Dr. Kevin Lanza will share his experiences conducting community-based, mixed-methods research in Central Texas on the impact of heat on physical activity of children and their households at home, while active commuting, and in the school setting and what can be done about it. Dr. Maricarmen Vizcaino will share her experiences exploring barriers for preventing heat-related illnesses among the Hispanic population in the Phoenix area, including the impact of heat on school-aged children during physical education classes and use of public transportation. Dr. Claudio Nigg will present the EU funded concept behind the GoGreenNext (GGN) project which addresses the biodiversity-climate-sustainability-health nexus, delivering positive policy and city/region pilot outcomes in four biogeographic regions across Europe (Cork City [Ireland], Klagenfurt [Austria], Paijat Hame Region [Finland], Malta).
Learning Objectives:
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Describe strategies for integrating climate change content into your health behavior research agenda.
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Identify ideas or resources that can aid you in conducting cross-disciplinary research on human and planetary health