Duke University Introduces Course Linking Climate Change and Health
Duke University’s new course, “Climate Change and Global Health,” led by Dr. Mark Janko, connects climate change to public health. Through practical activities, students learn about carbon storage in trees and the health impacts of climate change while working on solutions. The course emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, enhancing students’ understanding of global climate challenges.
In January, a cohort of approximately 20 students at Duke University participated in a practical lesson on climate change and its relation to health. These students measured the circumference of trees outside their classroom as part of Dr. Mark Janko’s inaugural course, “Climate Change and Global Health.” By estimating the carbon storage capability of these trees, students explored how daily activities contribute to their carbon footprint.
The course aims to educate undergraduates on the environmental drivers of climate change and its repercussions on human health. Inspired by Duke’s Climate Commitment initiative, Dr. Janko seeks to engage students from diverse academic backgrounds, marking the course as a pioneering focus on the health ramifications of climate change at the undergraduate level.
Dr. Janko, whose extensive research includes environmental transformations in the Amazon and other regions, emphasizes the urgency of understanding climate change as a critical future challenge for humanity. His background as a geographer and biostatistician enables him to tackle complex interconnections between climate, ecosystem health, and disease transmission.
Throughout the course, students will explore how climate change impacts the global environment. The curriculum culminates with students proposing solutions to mitigate climate change consequences, utilizing policy and community perspectives. Dr. Janko advocates for students to gain a comprehensive understanding of these issues, preparing them to engage as informed citizens.
In conclusion, Dr. Mark Janko’s course on “Climate Change and Global Health” at Duke University represents a significant advancement in undergraduate education regarding climate issues and public health. By linking academic inquiry with practical application, the course strives to cultivate informed citizens equipped to tackle future environmental challenges. The integration of diverse perspectives further enriches the learning experience, making it essential in today’s context of escalating climate concerns.
Original Source: globalhealth.duke.edu