Jonathan Patz studies the ways that climate change and related policies directly and indirectly affect human health. While his research on climate change initially addressed detrimental impacts on human health, he and his group now focus on the potential near-term health benefits that will arise from climate change mitigation policies. Through his work, he hopes to influence decision-making by highlighting such health opportunities, e.g. improved air quality or enhanced safe alternative transportation, as options for climate action are considered.
Health
From Coffee Cherries to Aronia Berries: How Food Science Professor Brad Bolling is Rethinking Food
Brad Bolling works to increase access to healthy, nutrient-dense foods to minimize costly chronic diseases. He uses a holistic approach, participating in the entire life cycle of his research; he measures the nutrients and bioactive compounds in foods, assesses their nutritional content and health impacts, then collaborates with food producers and consumers to grow support for foods that will be sustainable sources of nutrition for Wisconsin. His work promotes practices that reduce waste, support biodiversity, and prevent diet-related diseases to address systemic inefficiencies in food production and healthcare.
Resilience Spotlight: Applying advanced climate models to future-proof building specification
Today’s building specifications are designed for local weather conditions based on historical data. As future weather conditions vary significantly from historic trends due to human-induced climate change, building specifications must be recalibrated away from the …
UW–Madison designated as a Fair Trade University
On October 7, 2021, UW–Madison was designated as a Fair Trade University, making it just the second school in the Big Ten to attain this status, as well as the third within the UW System. …
Where Are They Now? Julia Tuttle interviews Suzie Kazar
In our “Where Are They Now?” series, current student interns interview former interns about their experience at the Office of Sustainability, and in particular how that experience has helped them since graduation. In the following …
Social Sustainability Coalition highlights Black leaders in environmentalism
During Black History Month, Social Sustainability Coalition members created a social media campaign to highlight prominent Black leaders in the field of environmentalism and sustainability. These leaders and their contributions were featured on the Office …
Resilience Spotlight: La Follette Faculty and Students Conduct Living Lab Cost-Benefit Analysis of 100% Renewable Energy Options
This hands-on, real-world research will inform the Office of Sustainability about available options for improving campus sustainability and resilience.
Resilience Spotlights: Expanded Public-Private Partnership Sets Course to Improve Conditions and Usability of Dane County Lakes
Yahara CLEAN Compact members promote a culture of sustainability in recognition of how our natural environment contributes to the region’s economic vitality, recreational offerings, and local quality of life.
Resilience Spotlight: Health practitioners, educators and students declare climate change a public health emergency, unite to decarbonize health care
Health professionals on campus and from across the state of Wisconsin are battling the pandemic while taking action in recognition that the global climate crisis is another public health emergency – an emergency with no vaccine.
UW–Madison releases Resilience Commitment impact report
In the context of sustainability, resilience refers to the ability of institutions, infrastructure, and communities to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The Resilience Commitment, which was signed by Chancellor Blank in …