This scoping literature review and qualitative framework analysis argues that community involvement in climate and health research is essential for addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on marginalized populations. It highlights how traditional research models often overlook the lived experiences and knowledge of those most affected, such as Indigenous communities and people in the Global South. By reviewing existing literature and applying a qualitative framework analysis, the authors demonstrate that community-based participatory research and citizen science approaches can lead to more relevant, culturally appropriate, and effective health interventions. These methods not only improve scientific understanding but also foster trust, respect, and ethical responsiveness in research.
The paper also explores the challenges and ethical considerations of community engagement, including the risk of reinforcing stereotypes and the uneven geographic distribution of participatory efforts. It emphasizes the need for dynamic and adaptive research designs, especially in rapidly changing environments like those shaped by climate crises. The authors advocate for a paradigm shift in global health research—one that integrates ecological and cultural determinants of health and prioritizes social justice. They provide practical examples and guidance for researchers, funders, and policymakers to support transformative, inclusive research that aligns with global sustainability and health equity goals.
This work was part of the broader project: ‘Dilemmas of health equity in global health research: A study of research on climate-sensitive infectious disease’. The work was funded by the Greenwall Foundation and Wellcome.