From knowledge to collective action: a peer-led model for climate and health leadership

The effects of climate change are increasingly impacting population health, yet most health professionals lack training in communication, advocacy, and systems-level leadership. This paper describes the Climate and Health Peer Learning Circle (PLC), a national, community-based leadership program developed by the Climate Advocacy Lab to strengthen health professional capacity for climate-responsive education and advocacy. Using a peer learning and practice-based model, the PLC supports participants to develop skills in narrative strategy, relational organizing, strategic communication, and applied advocacy. This manuscript presents the program’s conceptual framework, curriculum design, and implementation across four regional cohorts in 2025, and summarizes practice-based feedback gathered through surveys, coaching sessions, and participant reflection. While not a formal research evaluation, findings suggest that participants increased their confidence and applied skills and used PLC strategies to advance climate and health initiatives in clinical, community, and professional settings. The PLC demonstrates the potential of relational, peer informed models to move beyond knowledge acquisition and support health professionals as credible communicators and civic leaders within the climate and health movement.