Preparedness through partnership : integrating climate change and public health in the City of Boston

Abstract

In coordination with the City of Boston's Environment Department and Public Health Commission, this thesis examines the intersection between climate change adaptation and public health preparedness in Boston, proposing a cross-disciplinary integration of methods and concepts to strengthen both functions, thereby improving the preparedness and resilience of all residents. This thesis reviews the current role of public health in local climate adaption and preparedness, highlighting climate-related human health impacts specific to Boston's geographic setting, vulnerable populations, and current planning efforts, to identify opportunities for expanded and enhanced action. Lessons for Boston are drawn from an in-depth review of nine other U.S. cities and counties' relevant or innovative programs, strategies, and experiences. Grounded in an institutional context through engagement with and observations of the City of Boston's interdepartmental extreme temperature planning process, the research draws lessons, illustrative case studies, and recommendations for strategic planning and coordination to strengthen capacity, improve communication, and mitigate risk. Major themes presented include: the development of a professional workforce knowledgeable about climate-health and invested in taking action; the broad role public health can play in communicating, evaluating and mitigating the human impacts of climate change; and the potential for local agencies' strategic use of innovative external partnerships, data-driven analysis, and targeted yet adaptive planning processes to utilize limited resources for more responsive, efficient, and equitable climate-health actions.