We are in the midst of another sweltering heat wave in the East with temperatures soaring in the mid-to-upper-90's and the heat index approaching 110 degrees. Alarming as these heat waves may be, they are projected to become the norm in the coming decades with the repercussions from climate change becoming more commonplace.

Such extreme temperatures can worsen our air quality and are hazardous for children, the elderly, and those with heart and lung conditions. From a public health perspective, we have a duty to protect current and future generations from dirty air and pollutive forms of energy.

When heat and air quality begin to restrict my ability to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Fells Point waterfront, sightseeing in the Inner Harbor, or have a picnic in Federal Hill Park, then immediate action must be taken by supporting initiatives to decrease carbon emissions and increase the quality of life for generations to come. Act today to better tomorrow!

Timothy Bushman