A Department of Health (DOH) executive said that the public must increase its acceptance of the realities of climate change to help improve overall ecosystem health.
Dr. Ronald Law, director of the Health and Climate Change Office, said the challenge remains in spreading awareness to achieve the goals of “One Health.” He stressed that climate change is unequivocal and that people must acknowledge its existence.
“One Health” refers to an interconnected approach that seeks to optimize and balance the health of humans, animals, and plants within the ecosystem. Law said simplifying and democratizing the concept would help broaden public understanding.
He added that institutions must be deliberate in their communication strategies to build trust. Efforts to convince the public, he said, should avoid creating confusion.
Law also underscored the media’s crucial role as a bridge in raising awareness and combating misinformation. He said accurate and digestible information is essential in addressing climate change and its health impacts.
