Big Ideas in Climate & Health

Discover how connecting human, animal and environmental health can transform our global future! Dr. Craig Stephen is one of Canada’s foremost One Health pioneers and a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. With a career spanning conservation, emerging threat preparedness and global health promotion, Dr. Stephen engages on how we can concurrently safeguard our shared world. Don't miss this opportunity to explore how innovative health promotion strategies can help humans, animals and ecosystems thrive together.

Ever wondered how leisure can truly transform your well-being and help communities heal after a crisis? Join behavior science expert Dr. Shintaro Kono as he unlocks the secrets of personal fulfillment and post-disaster resilience. An Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, Dr. Kono blends cross-cultural insights like ikigai (the Japanese concept of "a life worth living") with practical approaches to mental recovery that includes how leisure engagement can help senior residents recover from wildfire trauma. Hear from Dr. Kono to be inspired, find balance and discover the deep power of intentional living.

From tackling wildland fires to practicing forensic nursing, Dr. Jim Johansson’s path is anything but traditional. Join Dr. Johansson, Assistant Professor of Nursing at the University of Alberta, as he explores today’s most urgent challenges: wildland firefighter and Indigenous community mental health, climate change impacts, forensic care and substance use policies. Discover how non-traditional nursing pathways are redefining compassionate care, breaking boundaries and building resilient communities where it matters most.

How does our changing environment affect the very air we breathe, and what steps can we take to protect our families? Dr. Anne Hicks is an Associate Professor in Pediatric Respiratory Medicine at the University of Alberta and Clinical Lead at the WHO-collaborating Stollery Children’s Environmental Health Clinic . Dr. Hicks translates complex science on air pollution, allergens and climate change into clear, empowering solutions. Learn the ways the body handles heat and how simple, informed choices can lead to healthier lungs and cleaner living environments for everyone.