Eugene is joining a growing list of cities around the world that are addressing these climate change and energy concerns with a plan to meet the challenges with vision and creativity. In developing this local plan, community leaders and citizens have clearly recognized the need to re-imagine how we live, eat, travel, and play. As we work to adapt to the uncertainties ahead, we can be sure that the boldness of our actions today will determine the quality of life in Eugene now and into the future. One of the six key action areas identified in this plan and expanded upon in its own section is human health. The Health and Social Services section addresses mental and physical health care and assistance programs for disadvantaged populations. This section contains recommendations to prepare health and social systems for a different future and reduce the impacts of climate-related disasters. According to this plan, the Eugene/Springfield area, climate change is expected to cause warmer, drier summers and wetter, stormier winters. Other potential challenges posed by climate change: Increased risks of flooding and consequent impacts on transportation infrastructure, housing stock, etc. Increased wildfire resulting in reduced air quality. Higher rates of asthma and other respiratory diseases. Disruption to transportation systems due to severe storms. Negative impacts on the drinking water supply. Increased energy prices. Increased incidence of heat-related illness.