For decades climate change has threatened the health and wellbeing of communities and families across the globe. The intersectionality of climate change, violence, and health has been studied extensively in adults; however, limited evidence exists on effects on children and adolescents. This workshop is designed to highlight knowledge gaps through examples of climate change’s impact on health and violence, and the role health providers can take in promoting safer and healthier environments. We will review a youth-led initiative, The Sunflower Project, in which high school students worked to create a green space in an impoverished area of Chicago. Westbrook Memorial Green space was created with over a dozen sunflowers planted by local volunteers. These flowers symbolize a sense of “unity, beauty, and pride” for volunteers and community members.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that the severity of climate related health risks is dependent on how well health systems and professionals can protect people; yet education around these climate-related health risks remains uncommon, particularly for adolescents. The youth led Sunflower projects demonstrate how education regarding climate change is its harmful effects on violence and health can be turned into advocacy. Health care providers are therefore urged to educate themselves and their patients on the harmful effects of climate change on youth violence and health.

1. Review the intersectionality of climate change, violence, and adolescent health.
2. Examine climate change as a threat multiplier for AYA populations.
3. Illustrate how education on the threats of climate change and violence can serve as an advocacy tool for youth.
4. Describe strategies to help change environments, reduce violence, and improve health outcomes for adolescents.