Bringing Climate and Health Together in Japanese and American Cities

This summer’s heatwaves and floods have highlighted the crucial link between climate change and health in cities. Cities around the world are recognising this connection and taking action to combat the climate crisis while fostering healthier environments. For example, by decarboniszing power grids and transportation systems, cities are reducing air pollution and decreasing respiratory illnesses. Additionally, initiatives like rooftop gardens and expanded parks help manage stormwater runoff, reduce flooding, cool urban areas, and lower the risks of heatstroke. It is vital for cities to understand the relationship between climate and health and to learn from each other's experiences. This event will feature a panel discussion with speakers from three American and three Japanese cities, who will share their insights and ideas on achieving net-zero emissions and improving urban well-being and quality of life.

This summer's heatwaves and floods have underscored the critical connections between climate change and health in cities. Fortunately, cities worldwide are increasingly making these connections as they combat the climate crisis and create healthier environments. By decarbonising power grids and transportation systems, for instance, cities are reducing air pollution and limiting respiratory illnesses. Additionally, by implementing rooftop gardens and expanding parks, cities are managing stormwater runoff, reducing flooding, cooling urban areas and lowering heatstroke risks. 

It is not only essential for cities to make linkages between climate and health, it is equally important that they learn from each other. Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring speakers from 3 American and 3 Japanese cities as they exchange insights and ideas on how cities can achieve net-zero emissions while enhancing the well-being and quality of life. This event is part of a project funded by the Wellcome Trust that is led by the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES) and implemented by the Woodrow Wilson Center and eight other institutions entitled “Leveraging co-benefits for healthy net-zero transitions in Japanese and other G7 cities.”