In the last few years, we have witnessed extreme weather events—including, most recently, devastating wildfires in Los Angeles—that have demonstrated how climate change is exacerbating the impact of natural disasters and the clear impacts it has on the health of individuals and communities. This webinar will discuss the short- and long-term physical and mental health impacts of wildfires and share insights into policies and prevention efforts to build resilience and address climate change.

Experts from across Columbia University will share evidence and strategies to answer the following questions. What are the immediate physical and mental health impacts of wildfires to prioritize today? How do we communicate—and combat misinformation and disinformation—about air quality, water safety and climate change more broadly? How can we minimize the long-term community health impacts and prevent greater health disparities? How can we build more resilience in our communities to adapt and respond to the losses that people are facing? How can we prioritize prevention and preparedness in recovery and efforts to rebuild?

Moderator:

• Duy Linh Nguyen Tu, Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of Professional Practice, Columbia Journalism School

Speakers:

• Kathrin Schilling, Assistant Professor of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
• Jeff Schlegelmilch, Director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, Columbia Climate School
• Hitendra Wadhwa, Adjunct Professor, Columbia Business School and Founder of the Mentora Institute
• Ami Zota, Associate Professor of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health