TMU School of Medicine researcher explores how space-based technologies are pioneering solutions for global health crises
(Toronto) January 22, 2025 — As the impacts of climate change increasingly threaten global health, a new editorial highlights the critical role of space-based technologies in addressing interconnected challenges. Published in The Journal of Climate Change and Health (Volume 21, January–February 2025) the review, “Innovative use of space-based technologies to address climate change and related global health crises (external link) ”, underscores innovative applications of satellite monitoring and planetary observations in combating climate-related crises, such as extreme weather events, air pollution, and infectious disease outbreaks.
Co-written by Dr. Farhan M. Asrar, Associate Dean, Clinical Faculty Relations at School of Medicine, Toronto Metropolitan University and Adjunct Faculty Member at the International Space University in Strasbourg, France and Helena Chapman, Associate Program Manager for Health and Air Quality Applications in the Earth Action Program of the NASA Earth Science Division, explore how the space sector is driving innovation in climate change and global health through advanced technologies and data analytics stemming from space exploration and satellite monitoring.
“Space-based tools, including remote sensing data and technologies, offer unique insights that can strengthen climate resilience, support sustainable policies, and enable real-time monitoring to address the escalating global environmental challenges.”
Examples include:
- Air Quality Monitoring: Instruments like NASA’s TEMPO and MAIA provide real-time air pollution data to aid health professionals in mitigating health risks.
- Infectious Disease Control: Satellite data integration with health surveillance enables predictive models for disease outbreaks, improving public health response.
- Disaster Management: Space agencies worldwide are leveraging satellite imagery to monitor and respond to climate-driven disasters, enhancing preparedness and recovery.
The research details a critical need to improve collaboration between global health professionals and space agencies and greater use of space-based tools to build climate-resilient health systems. It also highlights the crucial role of health professionals in shaping and executing national action plans to mitigate environmental risks to population health.
Interview opportunity:
Dr. Farhan M. Asrar, Associate Dean, Clinical Faculty Relations at School of Medicine, Toronto Metropolitan University
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