This past Summer, CleanAIRE NC collaborated with the NC Public Health Association to gather community insights on heat mitigation solutions for high-exposure areas in Charlotte, North Carolina. By bringing together healthcare workers, emergency responders, and community members, we aimed to improve quality of life through effective strategies.
Rising temperatures disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in the Queen City and can have serious health and economic consequences. We believe that community-driven insights are essential to developing effective, equitable solutions.
Let’s beat the heat together!
Participants described how excessive heat disrupts daily life, alters work schedules, and limits outdoor activity. Health concerns such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke were common, and many households face higher energy bills as air conditioning use rises. Emergency responders confirmed a growing number of heat-related calls, particularly involving the elderly, young children, and residents of low-income neighborhoods. Healthcare providers highlighted that many patients struggle to recognize early signs of heat-related illness, further increasing risk.
