Page 8 - Prevention - USA (April 2020)

P R E V E N T I O N

PULSE

Protect the

Planet—and

Your Health

The climate is changing, and it may already be affecting
your health. Some changes may have a direct and imme-
diate impact, such as air quality that can worsen respira-
tory conditions like asthma and allergies and make them
harder to manage. But many are a slow crescendo, like
warmer temps that can turn water into bacteria hot spots
and weather shifts that affect populations of disease-
carrying insects like mosquitoes and ticks. What can you
do to protect yourself and our planet? Start by walking
more and driving less, taking public transportation
whenever possible and being mindful of how often you
travel by airplane, lowering your energy use, eating less
meat, and supporting initiatives that prioritize environ-
mental protection and sustainability.
SIMON PHELPS/GETTY IMAGES.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT!
Take part in Earth Hour, a global initiative in which
millions of people participate each year to draw
attention to the climate crisis. It’s easy: Simply switch
off your lights on Saturday, March 28, at
8:30 p.m. and spend a quiet hour in darkness.

6 PREVENTION.COM • AP R I L 2020