Public awareness campaigns on climate-health hazards aim to educate communities about the risks of extreme heat and other climate-related health threats. These campaigns help people recognize symptoms of heat-related illnesses, understand how to stay safe during heatwaves, and promote community support systems. In the Caribbean, where rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are increasingly affecting public health, such campaigns are a vital tool for building resilience.
For example, Aruba’s government has issued guidance on staying healthy during intense heat days, while Curaçao launched a campaign to raise awareness during hurricane season, emphasizing heat preparedness.
Feasibility & Local Applicability
These campaigns are highly feasible in SIDS due to their relatively small populations and strong community networks. Local governments and NGOs can use radio, social media, and community events to reach diverse audiences. In Curaçao, Aruba, and St. Martin, multilingual communication (e.g., Papiamentu, Dutch, English) ensures inclusivity. The campaigns can be tailored to local climate conditions and cultural contexts, making them both practical and impactful.
Co-benefits
Beyond protecting health, awareness campaigns can foster community cohesion and trust in public institutions. They encourage proactive behaviors, such as checking on vulnerable neighbors and using cooling centers. These efforts also support disaster preparedness and can be integrated with broader climate adaptation strategies, such as urban greening and water conservation.
Equity & Vulnerability Considerations
Public awareness campaigns can help reduce health disparities by targeting vulnerable groups—such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and low-income households—who are most at risk during heatwaves. Inclusive messaging and accessible formats (e.g., visual aids, local languages) should ensure information reaches all parts of society. Campaigns also promote solidarity, encouraging communities to support those who may lack resources or mobility.
Costs
Low - Medium | Most expenses involve communication materials, media outreach, and staff time. Partnerships with local media, schools, and health services can reduce costs further. Given their affordability and wide reach, awareness campaigns offer high value for money in climate adaptation planning.
Case-studies & Examples
Literature
- Johar, H., Abdulsalam, F. I., Guo, Y., Baernighausen, T., Jahan, N. K., Watterson, J., ... & Su, T. T. (2025). Community-based heat adaptation interventions for improving heat literacy, behaviours, and health outcomes: a systematic review. The Lancet Planetary Health