Climate & Health at WPSR
Climate change is a public health emergency. Our advocacy focuses on policies that reduce emissions, address health inequities, and build resilience across communities. We bring the unique and powerful voice of health professionals to climate campaigns statewide.
Under Fire in Eastern Washington
Eastern Washington is currently experiencing significant health, infrastructure, and community impacts from expansive wildfires across the region. Among the evacuated buildings includes the VA hospital in Spokane.
WPSR Latest: Read Dr. Breck Lebegue's new op-ed in The News Tribune, Maybe we shouldn’t expand airports. Trains would serve WA better, detailing why clean regional passenger rail is better for public health than expanding airport infrastructure. (8/26)
Comments to the EPA on Public Participation on Air Permitting: The EPA is considering reducing the need for public participation on some air quality permit requirements. WPSR’s comments emphasize the health impacts of fossil fuel emissions and the role of public participation in community health. Read the blog (8/25)
Climate Latest
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The Climate and Health Task Force
Doctors, nurses, and health professionals taking action and speaking out for climate action. Task Force members lead our educational efforts, speak with decisionmakers, research, advocate, and show up to help WPSR achieve its mission.
We meet monthly to plan, organize, and campaign to advocate for our main issues.
Our Work - Highlights
Read Dr. Breck Lebegue's new op-ed in The News Tribune, Maybe we shouldn’t expand airports. Trains would serve WA better, detailing why clean regional passenger rail is better for public health than expanding airport infrastructure.
Comments to the EPA on Public Participation on Air Permitting: The EPA is considering reducing the need for public participation on some air quality permit requirements. WPSR’s comments emphasize the health impacts of fossil fuel emissions and the role of public participation in community health. Read the blog.
WPSR launches microplastics fact sheet on health and climate harms related to microplastics. Check it out here!
SOLAR IN YAKIMA: Task Force member Alee Perkins, MD helped to lift a countywide moratorium in Central Washington.
Dr. Breck Lebegue featured in Sierra Magazine on the health impacts of foced coal plant reopenings (02/11/26)
EPA Deregulations and Attacks on Public Health: Read our explainer