Impact of climate change on human health: Exploring challenges and opportunities through a qualitative study in Birhan Field Site, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s climate exhibits significant regional variability, with varying rainfall patterns and consistently rising temperatures across the country. Climatic changes have direct and indirect effects on human health by increasing natural disasters such as flooding and droughts, increase food insecurity through reduced crop yields, and increase infectious disease transmission. Significant gaps exist in climate-health research, compounded by insufficient funding and a dependence on international evidence for local policy development. We explored community perspectives on the impact of climate variations on the environment, health and livelihood of people in Ethiopia to prioritize and inform mitigation strategies. We conducted a qualitative study in Ethiopia to discuss effects of climate change on human health, livelihoods, and the environment, as well as potential mitigation strategies for the country. Health workers, public health experts, and representatives from various organizations were interviewed. We systematically coded the data to identify prominent and emerging themes. We identified three overarching themes: (I) drivers of climate disruption and environmental degradation, (II) socioeconomic impacts of climate change on communities, (III) strategies for mitigating climate change and its impact. Key findings reveal weather pattern shifts, reduced crop yields, and environmental degradation caused by urbanization and improper waste disposal. Participants shared concerns including weather impacts on crop production and rising health risks, and proposed solutions including afforestation and reducing carbon emissions. Further research is needed to address climate disruptions, especially in low-resource, industrializing areas. Our findings underscore the imperative for collaborative efforts among policymakers, researchers, and local communities to address the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. Future research should prioritize developing evidence-based policies and interventions tailored to local contexts, aiming to enhance resilience and minimize the adverse impacts on Ethiopia’s population and ecosystems. By leveraging these insights, we can work towards a sustainable future that mitigates climate risks while fostering socio-economic and environmental stability.