The impact of food and water shortages, the spread of diseases like dengue fever and greater risks to mental health are just some of the problems being discussed by leading researchers in Brisbane this week.
World experts and 60 young researchers are coming together to look at the risks, solutions and opportunities that will matter for population health in a changing climate.
The Australian Academy of Science’s 2014 Theo Murphy High Flyers Think Tank Climate change challenges to health: risks and opportunities will ask researchers to focus on the health and related social impacts of climate change in five key areas:
Professor Tony McMichael, one of the world leading experts on health and climate change attending the Think Tank, said: “Climate change has started to amplify many existing health problems and will do so increasingly in the next few decades”.
“Different sectors and scientific disciplines need to get together to prepare for these future threats. This Think Tank is a great opportunity to help focus debate and inform decision-making in this area,” Professor McMichael said.
Previous Think Tanks on topics ranging from brain research to Australia’s ecosystems have influenced policy and helped set research priorities. Recommendations from the Think Tank will be formally published later this year.
The Theo Murphy Think Tanks are generously supported by the Theo Murphy (Australia) Fund, which is administered by the UK Royal Society.
What: Theo Murphy Think Tank, Climate Change and challenges to health: risks and opportunities
When: 23-25 July 2014
Where: Royal on the Park Hotel, 152 Alice St, Brisbane, Queensland
Watch a video preview of the Think Tank or read the full program here
Follow the discussion through our Twitter account @Science_Academy or through #TMthinktank.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
