OP-ED by William Sproule is the executive secretary-treasurer of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters; Debra Coyle is executive director of the New Jersey Work Environment Council and co-coordinator of Jersey Renews.
The recent winter weather events served as a stark preview of the challenges we can anticipate in a changing climate. From the bitter cold snaps that gripped the U.S., exacerbating respiratory issues, to the unprecedented snowstorms and freezing conditions, Mother Nature’s impact during the winter months was particularly harsh.
Amidst this winter challenge, it is crucial to acknowledge that climate change is not confined to summer concerns. Winter brings its own set of issues, especially for those with respiratory illnesses. A warming planet leads to more extreme and unpredictable weather patterns and can affect air quality, making breathing difficult, especially for individuals with preexisting conditions, during the winter months. Read the op-ed in ROI here.