Public health in a changing climate

This report examines how embedding public health within local authorities has impacted upon work to reduce carbon emissions and protect areas vulnerable to the effects of climate change.  The authors analysed Joint Strategic Needs Assessments (JSNAs), Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategies (JHWSs) and climate change strategies for 20 local authority areas with high levels of 'climate disadvantage'.  Climate change risks were included in 8 of the 20 JSNAs and 13 areas had strategies for mitigation and 8 for adaptation and most recognised the link between climate change and health.  However the authors note that while the commitment of key individuals has been successful in driving change, strategic leadership is critical to sustaining progress.