Climate Change

Pediatricians are leading their states and the nation in the call for climate solutions that protect the health, welfare and future of our young patients. Join clinicians across the Commonwealth in the Virginia Call to Action on Climate, Health and Equity. Virginia Clinicians for Climate Action (VCCA) calls on our state leaders to act now to mobilize climate solitions for our health, and health solutions for our climate. With the right policies and investments today, Virginia can lead the way towards our vision of healthy people in healthy places on a healthy planet.

THE PROBLEM AND OUR GOAL

Every child needs a safe and healthy environment to live, play and grow. Children in Virginia face threats to the water they drink, the air they breathe and the climate in which they live and will one day raise their own families.

Preserving a livable climate for human health and prosperity is a growing advocacy priority within the health community. The Virginia Chapter joins national AAP and other state chapters across the country in supporting policies that ensure a healthy
planet for healthy children.

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION

Transportation accounts for more than half of air pollution in the United States, and automobiles are the primary mobile source. This type of pollution, commonly referred to as traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) contains numerous pollutants including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen and greenhouse gases.

A new report and resources describe how pollution from transportation harms kids' health in the Commonwealth. The report finds that pollution from vehicles in Virginia causes 2,600 child asthma attacks, 3,310 cases of child bronchitis/respiratory symptoms and 220 new cases of asthma in women and children every year. If vehicles coming from out of state are included, these health numbers effects are doubled.

Join Virginia AAP's Environmental Health Committee as we advocate for clean air for kids in the Commonwealth!