Episode 77: Dr. Emily Sbiroli, an emergency medicine physician and trailblazer in the field of climate medicine, invites us to embark on a transformative journey that transcends boundaries and redefines the very essence of healing. Dr. Sbiroli seamlessly blends climate science with medical practice, sharing her unique path from studying environmental sustainability to becoming a board-certified emergency medicine physician. She addresses the health impacts of climate change and advocates for sustainable practices within healthcare. Tune in as we explore how climate medicine is transforming patient care and the healthcare industry's approach to environmental responsibility.

"What's keeping me going is a lot of the work that I do. I work with trainees still. I work with students. I work with kind of up and coming medical students, residents who are really, really interested in this work. The ideas that are coming down from the younger generation, the enthusiasm, the passion, and frankly, the kind of baseline awareness and education is so much better than what it was even when I just started seven, eight years ago in this kind of climate medicine world." -Dr. Emily Sbiroli

As an emergency physician and Affiliate Faculty at the University of Colorado Climate and Health Program Dr. Sbiroli transitioned into medicine to merge her passion for both people and the environment. She is a board-certified emergency physician specializing in integrating climate-conscious practices within healthcare. Dr. Sbiroli is dedicated to advancing the field of climate medicine, focusing on the intersection of environmental health and patient care. 

In this thought-provoking conversation, you'll discover: 

• The Emergence of Climate Medicine: Gain a deep understanding of this pioneering field, which recognizes the profound impacts of climate change on human well-being and equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to mitigate these threats.


• Empowering Strategies for Student Loan Management: Discover practical insights into taking control of personal finances, embracing agency, and pursuing fulfilling career paths without being weighed down by the burden of student loans.


• The Looming Threat of Microplastics: Delve into the alarming reality of microplastics infiltrating the human body, from testicular tissue to arterial plaques, and explore potential solutions to mitigate this unprecedented environmental crisis.

The Resources Mentioned in this episode are:

• Check out these studies on microplastics in atheromas and in testicular tissue.


• Visit the Environmental Working Group to make informed decisions and live a healthier life.


• Consider reading Emotional Agility to obtain personal and professional fulfillment.

Connect with Dr. Emily Sbiroli:

• LinkedIn

Connect with Andrea on Instagram (@andreaaustinmd) or LinkedIn about the show and more, or visit her website www.andreaaustinmd.com.