Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

12-2022

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Environmental, Agricultural & Occupational Health

First Committee Member

Jesse E. Bell, PhD

Second Committee Member

Azar Abadi, PhD

Third Committee Member

Kristina Kintziger, PhD

Abstract

Over the last century, Arizona’s climate has increased more than 1.1 to 1.4 degrees Celsius or 2 to 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature in Arizona is expected to increase an additional 2.2°C to 2.8°C in the next 40 years. Climate change poses various health and environmental hazards for the residents of Arizona. One of the most significant impacts is on water supply. As temperatures continue to rise in the desert, the demand for water will increase while the water supply will reduce. A literature review and program evaluation were conducted to evaluate how the impacts of climate change on Arizona’s water supply will influence public health. This evaluation will address the following questions: 1) how does climate change and urbanization affect Arizona, 2) what are the health implications of climate change on Arizona residents, 3) what are Arizona public health departments doing to prepare, and 4) what actions should the state of Arizona take to address these issues? The available literature was collected using a search strategy on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus literature database. Literature collection will include rate of temperature change, precipitation levels, water supply, air pollution, and changes in disease vectors. A program evaluation was conducted to assess the current water conservation efforts in Arizona. The various programs under the Department of Water Resources and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality have worked diligently to develop management strategies to supply Arizona with its water supply and build its storage supplies. These programs monitor the drought status, focus on conservation efforts, protect the drinking water by ensuring compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, and maintains surface water quality and safety. Policy actions, conservation efforts, lifestyle and educational outreach, and water planning will need to be taken in order achieve water sustainability.

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