Shweta Arya is the Senior Project Manager for Smart Surfaces at the American Public Health Association’s Center for Climate, Health & Equity. In this role, she collaborates closely with APHA Affiliates and partners to build cross-disciplinary coalitions—particularly engaging underserved communities—to help cities prepare for and reduce the health risks posed by extreme heat and excessive rainfall. Shweta focuses on advancing Smart Surfaces as a climate and health equity solution that mitigates urban heat and flooding while addressing systemic health disparities.

 Previously, Shweta served as Executive Director of Delaware Interfaith Power & Light, where she led faith-based climate initiatives, significantly contributing to the passage of Delaware’s landmark Climate Change Solutions Act. She also co-led POWER Delaware, a statewide coalition advocating for offshore wind and an urgent transition to renewable energy.

 In addition, Shweta is a founding member and co-chair of the Alliance on Heat Resilience and Health (AHRH), a national coalition of health organizations driving coordinated advocacy, planning, and preparedness to protect communities from extreme heat as a critical public health threat. She also co-chairs the Mid-Atlantic Alliance on Climate and Health, a regional coalition of health professionals advancing climate resilience and equity.

 Outside of work, Shweta enjoys gardening with native plants, trail running, and diving into climate solution podcasts and books.