The U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) recently announced the leads for the National Climate Assessment (NCA5), and Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience Affiliate, Dr. Mary Hayden was named to lead the Human Health team. This role is extremely important in researching how ongoing climate-related changes to our world will impact the health of people in the United States. When completed, the report will provide the U.S. Congress with valuable information related to our changing climate and help lawmakers create targeted climate policy.

Every four years, USGCRP submits a report to the U.S. Congress documenting changes to the planet based on research conducted by a team of scientists specializing in a variety of disciplines. According to globalchange.gov, the official website for the program, the report tracks trends in climate indicators such as greenhouse gas levels, land and sea temperatures, measurements related to Arctic sea ice, and the potential impact on society. The report will provide needed information in identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities across the globe and will contribute to ongoing planning and mitigation efforts. 

This is extremely important work that is reserved for a select group of researchers who have dedicated their careers to finding answers to these tough questions. It’s through the work of committed researchers like Dr. Hayden that we find a better understanding of the world around us and gain the perspective and motivation necessary to create the change and innovation needed for a greener tomorrow.

For additional information on the U.S. Global Change Research Program, you can visit the main page here.