Climate change and pollution pose significant threats to public health, drive up health care costs, and amplify disasters like wildfires and poor air quality that disrupt services in vulnerable communities.
Blue Shield of California is partnering with local organizations through the Anchors in Resilient Communities (ARC) initiative to foster climate resilience. This multi-stakeholder model, coordinated by Health Care Without Harm and Emerald Cities Collaborative, utilizes the assets of anchor institutions and community partners to promote equitable, regional economies and address social determinants of health in the communities where they are located.
“Investing in initiatives like Anchors in Resilient Communities is essential for health insurance companies. It’s not just about reducing costs – it’s preventative medicine,” said Health Care Without Harm’s founder Gary Cohen. “By addressing the root causes of health disparities and building resilience, we are creating healthier, more sustainable communities that are better equipped to face the challenges of climate change.”
In 2024, ARC was one of four recipients of Blue Shield of California's environmental justice investment to help communities prepare for and recover from climate-related disruptions.
