Today is Earth Day and NP's have long been engaged in protecting our environment. Today is the 50th Earth Day Anniversary and FNPN is acknowledging worldwide NP support of this mission. This effort has never been so important than it is this year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve actually been given a brief insight as to how different a low-carbon future could look like due to the worldwide lockdown being implemented across the globe  - SMOG on the west coast improved air quality dramatically. Now is the time for NPs to learn more about sustainability and learn what we can do in tackling climate change by joining environmental awareness groups or reading more about this global issue. 

The World Health Organization (WHO), reported that before COVID 19 became a global threat, "Climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century." The earth's temperature is rising due to human activities which increase greenhouse gas emissions from the burning of fossil fuels for energy production and use, transportation, industry and agriculture.  Feeling more mosquitos these days? More Lyme Disease diagnosed; Algae blooms more prevalent causing respiratory disease? This global warming and climate change impact health with increased severe weather-related injuries, air quality issues, increases in vector-borne illnesses and waterborne illnesses, heat-related issues and, mental health issues.  Why not join us and follow in the footsteps of Florence Nightingale the original Nurse Environmentalist! 

Social Media today filled with resources: Earth Day Live!  or Alliance of Nurses For Healthy Environments and many more.  Join in this Mission- it makes sense!

SPOTLIGHT!  FNPN Member Carol Lindsey, APRN, Ret. Captain USPHSC is presenting a Webinar tonight. FNA WEBINAR: "THE ROLE OF NURSES IN ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE" Click this link to sign up, a small fee applies.