WHEREAS, College campuses within the California Community College system face an imminent and escalating threat from extreme heat events [1], jeopardizing the health [2], well-being, and academic pursuits of our students;
WHEREAS, The adverse effects of high temperatures on students' health and academic performance are well-documented [3][4] and demand urgent attention; and
WHEREAS, Proactive solutions to address extreme heat events are available, such as ensuring campus facilities have adequate air conditioning systems [5], developing heat safety plans to keep students indoors during extreme heat events [6], increasing the availability of green spaces on and near campus [7], and collaborative, long-term strategies to combat climate change [8]; Now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for policies that push all member colleges to establish and execute comprehensive heat safety plans that prioritize the physical and mental well-being of students, faculty, and staff, thus mitigating the severe health risks posed by extreme heat events;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for long-term, sustainable solutions that mitigate the impact of extreme heat events and address the root causes of climate change, ensuring the safety and prosperity of our system’s students.
Sources:
[1]https://scag.ca.gov/sites/main/files/file-attachments/extremeheatpublic… 0.pdf?1634674354
[2]https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)01208-3/fulltext
[3]https://fsi.stanford.edu/news/how-extreme-heat-affects-learning
[4]https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/extreme-heat-linked-with-reduced-cognitive-performance-among-young-adults-in-non-air-conditioned-buildings/
[5]https://www.brookings.edu/articles/as-extreme-heat-grips-the-globe-access-to-air-conditioning-is-an-urgent-public-health-issue/ [6]https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2023/01/heat-ready-schools-project-h…