While some crops are experiencing longer growing seasons which may be beneficial in some areas, invasive species may also increase, threatening future or other crops.

As temperatures change landscape, growing seasons, and wildlife populations, these people may face food shortages and subsequent malnutrition. Many people in Alaska use land and sustenance food resources (such as wild fish, eggs, and berries) to sustain themselves. Such ailments can impair social, professional, and cognitive function thus, mental health impacts of climate change are of great concern. Alaska already has higher rates of mental illness compared to the rest of the country. Stress not only predisposes individuals to be more vulnerable to illness, but may also lead to or exacerbate mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Quickly rising water levels and erosion threaten infrastructure to many Alaskan’s homes and communities, which can cause chronic, long-term stress.

Coastal Life, Sea Rise & StressĪccording to NPR, approximately 90% of Alaska’s residents live in coastal areas, such as those pictured along the coastline in southeastern Alaska. Here are some ways that the health of Alaska residents may be impacted by climate change. Taking note of how climate change has already affected the health of Alaskans, and how it may in the future, is important to mitigate and adapt to our changing world for a healthier future. Weather and temperature fluctuations aside, many experience the less obvious but no less concerning health impacts caused or exacerbated by climate change. Pictured above are mountains near Glacier Bay National Park, just one area seeing rapid change.īut climate change isn’t just seen – it’s felt. With rapidly increasing temperatures, thawing permafrost, changes in precipitation and weather patterns, melting glaciers and subsequent sea level rise, many people in Alaska see reminders of climate change in their daily lives. In Alaska, climate change is impossible to ignore. In many parts of the country, climate change may slip into the back of our mind as we go about our lives.

Alaska cloudy day fishing planet