A Flexible Framework for Urgent Public Health Climate Action

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Environmental Health
• Climate Change Adaptation

Background:

• Climate change presents significant risks to public health, safety, and well-being.
• Public health agencies are crucial for climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.
• Existing frameworks require updates to center justice, equity, and integration of mitigation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the revised "Building Resilience Against Climate Effects" (BRACE) framework by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• To provide practical guidance for public health practitioners to enhance climate resilience.
• To support health departments in developing and expanding climate action initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Revision of the original climate and health framework.
• Development of a practical, step-by-step implementation guide.
• Emphasis on centering justice, equity, and belonging; integrating mitigation; and addressing agency capacity.

Main Results:

• The updated BRACE framework offers an accessible, tailorable approach for diverse contexts.
• The framework prioritizes collaboration, cross-sectoral partnerships, and community engagement.
• Guiding principles and key tactics are detailed for practical implementation.

Conclusions:

• The revised BRACE framework empowers health departments to bolster climate resilience and public health.
• Urgent and expanded engagement in public health climate action is necessary.
• The framework supports the promotion of health equity and adaptation strategies.