Health, Safety & Well-Being
Climate change disproportionately impacts low-income families, communities of color, the elderly, children, and unhoused populations.
The Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) identifies two key health, safety and well-being-related goals:
- Prepare public safety, health, and community services for anticipated climate change impacts.
- Reduce emissions associated with the food system.
Health, Safety & Well-Being
Be Part of the Solution!
All Columbians need to be actively engaged in our resilient future.
Community Well-Being and Preparation
Combating Extreme Heat
To ensure residents are able to endure periods of extreme heat and cold, the City has designated nine public warming/cooling centers and participates in the Voluntary Action Center’s Air Conditioner Exchange program.
Community Well-Being and Preparation
Emergency Preparedness
Boone County is vulnerable to natural hazards include flooding, tornadoes, earthquakes, severe winter storms, heat waves, droughts and sinkholes. Climate change brings greater risk of these weather-related emergencies. Columbia has partnered with regional emergency responders on preparedness planning to ensure the City and all residents can recover effectively and efficiently from disaster. Learn more about Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, and find the resources you need to be prepared.
Locally Produced Food
GHG Emissions From Our Food System
The food industry emits GHGs through the production, processing, distribution and disposal of food. As the climate changes, food production and food sales may also become more expensive. Columbia has set a goal to increase the production and consumption of locally produced food and support food security. Sustainability partner Community Garden Coalition.
Locally Produced Food
Food Deserts
In Boone County, 31% of the population is low-income and lives over a mile from a grocery store. Without easily accessible grocery stores or the necessary resources, it can be a real challenge to maintain a healthy diet, thereby putting our community members at risk for disease and illness and making them more vulnerable.
Data source: USDA ERS – Food Access Research Atlas.