Brains on Fire: Climate Change, Neurological Health, and Equity

​Explore how climate change impacts brain health and equity in this hybrid panel by the Brain Climate Equity Collaborative.

​Join us for an evening exploring how climate change is shaping neurological health across Canada.

Hosted by the Brain Climate Equity Collaborative (Brain-CE Collab) and Canada Climate Week Xchange (CCWX), this hybrid panel brings together clinicians, researchers, and advocates to unpack the science, policy gaps, and equity dimensions of the climate–brain health intersection.

​From wildfire smoke and extreme heat to air pollution and mental health, our panelists will explore how environmental crises affect the brain and what we can do to build resilience.

​Attendees can expect:

• ​Insightful talks connecting neuroscience, public health, and climate policy

• ​Interactive Q&A with leading experts

• ​Opportunities for collaboration and networking

• ​Accessible participation via in-person attendance in Health Science Centre Calgary or online

​Zoom Registration: https://ucalgary.zoom.us/meeting/register/eWPjsABuSIm9sxXKFnsgjw#/registration

​Event Structure & Timing

​5:00 PM - Doors open

​5:15 PM - Chapter 1 – Understanding the Problem (30 mins moderated + 15 mins audience Q&A)

​6:00 PM - Transition + social break (15 mins)

​6:15 PM - Chapter 2 – From Evidence to Justice-Centred Action (30 mins moderated + 15 mins audience Q&A)

​7:00 PM - Thank-yous & optional mingling

​Refreshments will be provided!

​Panel 1 — “Understanding the Problem”

​Focus: What’s happening? Who’s at risk? What does the science, clinical reality, and lived experience tell us?

​Panelists:

• ​Dr. Bhavini Gohel (Makwana)

• ​Dr. Philip Barber

• ​Dr. Kristen Sjonnesen

• ​Dr. Melanie Kloetzel

​Panel 1 builds urgency and clarity. We hear what neurologists, physicians, pediatric experts, and artists are already seeing across clinics, communities, and bodies — and who is being left behind.

​Panel 2 — “From Evidence to Justice-Centred Action”

​Focus: How do we design responses – in systems, communities, and policy – that actually shift outcomes and centre justice from the outset, not as an afterthought?

​Panelists:

• ​Dr. Aravind Ganesh

• ​Dr. Gwendolyn Blue

• ​Muse Laroyia

• ​Trisha McOrmond

​Panel 2 brings in a justice lens, explores real levers for change, and highlights pathways already emerging across health systems, public engagement, disaster risk, youth leadership, and policy.