The Center for American Progress (CAP) has released a new analysis recommending measures to mitigate the effects of extreme heat on young children's health, development, and learning. This comes as 2024 is projected to surpass 2023 as the hottest year recorded in human history.
Currently, no federal safety standard defines the temperature threshold at which children’s health becomes endangered. Pediatricians generally agree that temperatures above 85 degrees pose a threat to children, exacerbated by high humidity, direct sunlight, and physical activity.
CAP policy experts propose solutions at both federal and state levels to better protect children and educators from extreme heat. The report outlines five key actions for policymakers:
1. Develop a federal heat safety standard for children, adopted by state and local authorities.
2. Expand state-level data collection to inform advocacy and funding for school infrastructure improvements.
3. Include funding for schools and child care facilities in future federal infrastructure and early learning bills.
4. Assist schools and child care programs in accessing grants and resources for clean energy infrastructure projects.
5. Prioritize environmental justice by focusing funding on communities most affected by climate change.
“Young children bear the least responsibility for human-driven climate change, but they face disproportionately severe consequences from the extreme temperatures stemming from it,” said Hailey Gibbs, senior policy analyst for Early Childhood at CAP and co-author of the report. “Leaders at all levels of government need to take child-centered, community-driven actions to address the threats of extreme heat and protect the next generation.”
Paige Shoemaker DeMio, policy analyst for K-12 Education at CAP and co-author of the report, emphasized the need to address climate change comprehensively: “We can’t protect children from extreme heat without addressing the threats of climate change and pollution. Policymakers need to build on the Biden administration’s ambitious climate agenda to accelerate the transition from fossil fuel energy sources toward a clean energy economy.”
The full report titled “Protecting Children From Extreme Heat Is Critical for Their Health, Learning, and Development” is authored by Allie Schneider, Paige Shoemaker DeMio, Hailey Gibbs, and Lisette Partelow.
For more information or to speak with an expert, contact Mishka Espey at [email protected].
