The overall objective of this project is to explore feasibility in adding selection and monitoring of the following human health indicators and outcomes. 1) Toxic and biologic contaminants in Puget Sound’s air, water, and food 2) Extreme temperatures and/or other human health threats posed by climate change 3) Other relevant Puget Sound environmental exposures or impacts 4) Gather any other information regarding the current data and gaps in monitoring efforts regarding human health and the environment in Puget Sound. Monitoring human health indicators and outcomes may result in additional recommendations of developing one or more new PSEMP work groups and/or supporting interests in the already existing work groups. PSEMP leaders are interested in any additional recommendations that may come forward. Human Health and Climate Change for Consideration: As noted in objective 2 above, we are interested in human health threats posed by climate change and variability. The Partnership’s Human Wellbeing survey for the Vital Signs has identified the following factors as considerations to human health and climate change in the region. • Wildfire smoke or haze exposure • Extreme heat or heat wave • Contamination of private well water – including saltwater intrusion that may spoil wells • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke • Asthma or respiratory illness due to poor air quality (i.e. pollution, wildfire smoke, pollen) • Sickness due to poor water quality • Psychological distress due to environmental threats or changes (i.e. anxiety, stress, fear) • *Not listed in the survey, but could be an additional consideration – Flood risk reduction which could include reduced injury or death from flooding
