The Impact of Climate Change on Alaska Natives

The disproportionate climate vulnerability of Alaska Native communities was the feature story of a recent issue of the Journal of Environmental Health. Co-written by SEARCH Executive Committee member & Human Well Being team co-chair Jackie Qataliña Schaeffer, the article highlights the need for urgent action to address the climate threats, consequences, and inequities facing Indigenous Peoples in both Alaska and beyond. Climate change’s impacts to food sovereignty, cultural and spiritual practices, and mental and behavioral health were highlighted as key challenges. Jackie—who is also the Director of Climate Initiatives at the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium—was joined in writing the article by colleagues from the National Environmental Health Association, the Native Village of Paimiut, and the Alaska Wildlife Alliance. Beyond outlining the unique environmental challenges facing Alaska and Alaska Natives, Jackie and her collaborators wove in tangible perspectives and examples from Indigenous individuals and communities. Follow this link to explore the article in full.