Whereas, The World Health Organization has designated April 7, 2008, as "World Health Day" and will focus on the need for health protection from the adverse effects of climate change; and,

Whereas, This year's theme puts health at the centre of the global dialogue about climate change; and,

Whereas, Health hazards from climate change are diverse and global in nature and can range from higher risks of extreme weather events to change in the dynamics of infections diseases, and many of the leading killer diseases are sensitive to climatic conditions; their incidence and spread are likely to be affected by changing weather patterns; and,

Whereas, The health impacts of climate change are already evident in different ways:  more people are dying from excessive heat than before and changes are occurring in the incidence of vector-borne diseases; and,

Whereas, The health impacts of climate change will be difficult to reverse in a few years or decades, but many of these possible impacts can be avoided or controlled; and,

Whereas, Many of the steps that are taken to prevent climate changes can have positive health benefits as well, including the increased use of bicycles and public transportation instead of personal cars reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves air quality and leads to better respiratory health and fewer premature deaths, and fewer obesity-related illnesses; and,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 7, 2008, as World Health Day in Michigan.