Xavier Becerra Secretary at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services | Twitter Website
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) marked Earth Day 2024 by highlighting a wide range of initiatives and accomplishments aimed at addressing climate change and environmental hazards. Various programs and collaborations were announced to support health sector resilience, sustainability, and decarbonization.
The HHS Climate Change and Health Equity Strategy Supplement summarizes efforts on resilience and decarbonization, while the Office of Climate Change and Health Equity introduced a Catalytic Program to assist organizations in taking advantage of tax credits and grants. Additionally, resources like the Health Sector Resource Hub and the Referral Guide for Health Professionals were made available to support healthcare professionals in managing climate-related stressors.
Furthermore, HHS emphasized the importance of reducing healthcare carbon emissions through various tools and initiatives, including the voluntary Decarbonization and Resilience Initiative by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The White House-HHS Health Sector Climate Pledge also continued to gain support from private sector health organizations.
In response to extreme heat and wildfire smoke challenges, HHS introduced products like the EMS HeatTracker and the Cooling Season Toolkit. These resources aim to provide assistance and support to communities facing environmental emergencies.
Moreover, HHS showcased efforts to advance environmental justice, including launching the HHS Environmental Justice Community Innovator Challenge and reaching agreements to address environmental injustices in various communities. The department also released reports and tools to enhance water utility affordability, support rural communities, and empower workers in environmental career fields.
Overall, HHS's comprehensive approach to environmental health and climate resilience demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding public health and promoting sustainability in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
