A recent report has outlined critical steps North Carolina can take to address its growing environmental health concerns. The report summarizes key takeaways from the 9th annual NC BREATHE Conference 2024, which took place in Durham. Over two days, the event brought together more than 200 participants, including researchers, policymakers, and community members, to discuss pressing climate and health issues.
Addressing PFAS Contamination
One of the primary concerns highlighted in the report is the widespread contamination of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a group of chemicals linked to severe health problems such as increased cancer risks. Despite its dangerous impact, public understanding of PFAS remains limited.
Emily Wolfe, the health manager at CleanAIRE NC—the organization that hosted the event—emphasized the importance of raising awareness about PFAS contamination.
“Understanding the research, educating the public, and effectively communicating these issues to communities are vital,” Wolfe explained. “People need to be informed so they can advocate for themselves.”
The report stresses holding policymakers and regulators accountable, urging them to take stronger measures to safeguard public health.
The Impact of Extreme Heat
Another key topic at the conference was the growing problem of extreme heat. Wolfe highlighted that while this affects everyone, marginalized groups, such as low-income households and communities of color, are particularly vulnerable.
She noted a crucial gap in utility disconnection policies: while laws prevent utility companies from cutting off power during winter months, no such protections exist for the increasingly hot summers.
“It could be extremely hot for days, without cooling off at night,” Wolfe explained. “If someone can’t pay their power bill, their electricity could be disconnected, leading to severe safety risks.”
The report calls for improved policies to ensure utility access during extreme heat and better community-level protections for those at risk.
Climate Change and Mental Health
Climate journalist and photographer Justin Cook, who participated in a panel discussion at the conference, spoke about the mental health challenges posed by climate change. He explained how extreme weather events and shifting landscapes are leaving many North Carolinians feeling displaced and anxious.
Hopelessness, Cook noted, is not an option for people actively rebuilding after disasters. Instead, taking action can help individuals regain a sense of purpose and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
“Action and agency are what help people push through,” Cook said. “It gives them a sense of purpose and is a valuable survival tool in the age of climate chaos.”
Call to Action
The NC BREATHE 2024 conference highlighted that community awareness, stronger policies, and collective action are essential to tackling these issues. The report underscores the importance of partnerships between policymakers, advocacy groups, and local communities to create sustainable solutions.
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