Grant: Project Grant

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of emergencies such as wildfires, floods, landslides, extreme heat, and water insecurity across British Columbia (BC). Indigenous Peoples steward much of the world's remaining biodiversity, and their health is inseparable from the health of the land. In BC, First Nations communities are often among the most impacted by climate emergencies because these events disrupt food systems, drinking water, housing, cultural practices, and physical, mental, and community well-being. Indigenous Matriarchs, women, and Two-Spirit leaders play central roles in decision-making, and caring for families, lands, and waters during crises, yet their leadership is not always recognized within public health systems. First Nations across BC have demonstrated strong climate leadership grounded in Indigenous governance, land-based knowledge, and Indigenous languages that carry laws and responsibilities tied to specific territories. However, public health systems have not consistently worked in ways that respect or embed First Nations decision-making during emergencies. This BC First Nations-led research project will work across the seven First Nations language families in BC to understand how climate change affects health and how Nations are already protecting their communities. Through case studies, interviews with Elders and community leaders, and gatherings, the research will identify practical ways public health systems can better support First Nations health and sovereignty in climate emergency planning. The research will co-develop the first BC First Nations sovereignty-affirming climate-health emergency response framework to guide public health systems in working with First Nations in ways that uphold rights, protect ecosystems, and improve health equity for all people in BC. This work will strengthen coordinated responses to climate emergencies in BC and contribute to more equitable public health systems across Canada.