The implementation gap: Cross-sector management of heat-related health risks in Western cape, South Africa.

ABSTRACT: As temperatures rise due to climate change, so do adverse health effects. In response, many countries, including South Africa, have developed heat health action plans to address these threats to public health. In the Western Cape province, increasing heat events necessitate a well-coordinated response across governance levels and sectors. Understanding how heat risks are governed, particularly at subnational and local levels, is critical for safeguarding public health and building resilience to future climate challenges. This study draws on 31 in-depth interviews and cross-references a previous policy document analysis to examine how South African decision-makers, both within and outside the health sector, at the Western Cape provincial and municipal levels, manage heat-related health risk

SUBMITTER: Quintana AV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12571260 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature