Leadership challenge: health professionals are concerned, pessimistic, yet motivated about climate and health

Abstract

Background: The health sector contributes 8.5% of US greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and 4.4% of global GHG emissions. Health professionals are in a powerful position to advance mitigation and adaptation climate solutions, yet there is weak consensus about allaying concern and encouraging optimism and motivation in the research.

Objectives: In reviewing Climate and Health Tool (CHANT) data (2020-2024), authors explored these questions: (1) How are concern, optimism and motivation to act on climate change related? (2) What do respondents report motivates and demotivates action on climate and health? (3) How does concern and optimism relate to motivating and demotivating climate action?

Participants and results: 6823 health professionals responded to the tool. Females (84%), non-US respondents (8%) and late-career nurses were most concerned about climate change. Nurses and females were most motivated to act. Optimism about prevention and preparation was higher among nurses-particularly late-career nurses. Most frequently identified motivators were 'clean air and water' (78%), 'the future' (75%) and 'health impacts' (73%). Most frequent demotivators included 'I don't know what to do' (37%), 'I am overwhelmed' (37%) and 'It is too complex' (34%).

Conclusions: Results of the CHANT indicate health professionals are concerned and motivated-yet not optimistic. Amplifying motivating messaging, educating and simplifying climate mitigation or adaptation activities may encourage action among health professionals regardless of optimism.Leaders have opportunities to harness health professionals' motivation to act on climate change in the interest of health. By leveraging motivators and decreasing barriers, health leaders might inspire further climate action across health professions.

Keywords: measurement; multi-disciplinary; nurse; sustainability.