Duke University has introduced a groundbreaking course titled “Climate Change and Global Health,” taught by Dr. Mark Janko. The course allows students to learn about climate dynamics and their effects on health through practical exercises. Students are tasked with exploring solutions to mitigate the consequences of climate change, fostering informed and engaged future citizens.
In January, twenty students from Duke University embarked on a practical learning experience about climate and health, measuring the trunks of trees on campus. They utilized ropes and rulers to calculate the trees’ ability to store carbon, discovering that a small tree could offset the carbon produced during a brief shower, while a larger tree sequestered carbon equivalent to a ten-day cruise. This exercise was part of the newly introduced course by Dr. Mark Janko, titled “Climate Change and Global Health.”
Dr. Janko developed this undergraduate course to address the intersection of climate change and health after Duke implemented its Climate Commitment. The course, which draws students from diverse majors such as economics, psychology, and biology, is the first of its kind at Duke focusing on the health implications of climate change. Dr. Janko aims to cultivate curiosity among students regarding climate dynamics and their effects on health.
Dr. Janko, a geographer and biostatistician, brings over ten years of research experience in environmental changes from the Amazon, Madagascar, and the Congo basin. His studies in the Amazon highlight the detrimental effects of deforestation, including how it facilitates the spread of diseases like malaria. He emphasizes the urgency of understanding the irreversible damage climate change may inflict on ecosystems.
As the most significant challenge facing humanity, Dr. Janko believes students must possess a comprehensive understanding of climate change and its health impacts. His approach encompasses multiple disciplines to illustrate the connections between human activities and environmental alterations, which subsequently affect health outcomes. He also plays a crucial role in the Amazon Research Consortium for Climate Change and One Health at Duke.
Throughout the course, students learn about the various facets of climate change and its global effects. Towards the conclusion, they engage in devising potential solutions grounded in policy and community perspectives. Dr. Janko expresses a desire for his students to emerge as informed citizens capable of discussing complex climate-related issues, ensuring they contribute meaningfully in their future endeavors.
Dr. Mark Janko’s innovative course, “Climate Change and Global Health,” represents a significant step in educating students on the critical link between climate change and human health. By integrating practical exercises with theoretical knowledge, students gain insight into climate impacts and are encouraged to develop solutions informed by policy and community engagement. Ultimately, this course prepares students to address one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity.
Original Source: globalhealth.duke.edu
