Climate change isn’t just about rising sea levels or extreme weather, it’s also a silent health crisis.

For Samoa and other Pacific nations, its effects are more than environmental; they directly impact the well-being of our people. While the world debates policies, we live with the consequences, and our health is on the line. Let's dive into three key ways climate change is affecting our health and why we, the youth, must take action.

Have you noticed how much hotter it feels these days? Samoa’s temperatures are climbing, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and even dangerous. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause heat exhaustion, dehydration, and in severe cases, heatstroke.

Think about the athletes who train outside or the farmers working in the fields. They’re more vulnerable now because their bodies are exposed to these extreme conditions daily. Our elders and young children are also at high risk, as their bodies can’t regulate heat as well.

Simple actions like planting more trees for shade or encouraging others to stay hydrated during hot days can make a big difference.

Have you noticed how dengue fever outbreaks have become more frequent? That’s not a coincidence. Warmer temperatures and changing rainfall patterns create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, which carry diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.

In 2023, Samoa experienced one of its worst dengue outbreaks in years. Hospitals were crowded, and many families faced anxiety and loss. These diseases don’t just bring physical pain, they disrupt education, work, and daily life, especially in rural areas where healthcare access is limited.

We need to get creative, and use social media to spread awareness about cleaning up stagnant water around homes and communities. Even small efforts like checking water tanks or coconut shells for mosquito larvae can save lives.

Climate change is also making it harder for families to put food on the table. Cyclones, flooding, and unpredictable weather patterns destroy crops like taro, bananas, and vegetables, which are staples of the Samoan diet.

When crops fail, food becomes more expensive, and families are forced to rely on cheaper, less nutritious options. This leads to malnutrition, especially in children, who need balanced diets to grow strong and healthy.

For example, Cyclone Tino in 2020 wiped out entire plantations, and many families struggled to recover for months. Today, the rising cost of food imports adds to the burden, leaving many communities vulnerable.

Advocate for climate-resilient farming practices, like using flood-resistant crops or promoting backyard gardening. The youth can lead this movement by learning about sustainable farming and teaching others.

As young people, we are the heartbeat of Samoa’s future. Climate change affects us directly, it’s our health, our families, and our communities at risk. By learning, spreading awareness, and taking action, we can protect not only ourselves but also future generations.

Let’s push for stronger climate policies, support local initiatives, and get involved in grassroots projects. Remember, it’s not about waiting for change, it’s about being the change.

Climate change may feel overwhelming, but together, we can tackle its challenges. Start small, whether it’s planting a tree, sharing information with friends, or helping clean up your village. These actions might seem minor, but they build momentum. Let’s ensure Samoa stays strong, healthy, and resilient, not just for today but for tomorrow.

So, what will your first step be? The time to act is now.