Prominent Heads of State and esteemed experts in the fields of health and climate convened today to deliberate on pressing issues at the intersection of climate and health, in anticipation of the UN Climate Conference’s (COP-28) inaugural ‘Day of Health.’ This significant gathering took place at the outset of New York Climate Week during the annual session of the UN General Assembly in New York, USA.
The central theme resonating throughout the event underscored a stark reality: the climate crisis unequivocally constitutes a health crisis. Climate change poses an imminent and profound threat to human health, affecting nearly half of the world’s population today rather than in some distant future.
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a resounding call to action, imploring Health Ministers to amplify their voices as champions for health in the realm of climate action. The call urged leaders to serve as exemplars by fostering climate-friendly healthcare systems while advocating for climate finance that safeguards the well-being of current and future generations.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the urgency of the situation, declaring, “The most compelling reasons for climate action are not in the future – they’re right here, right now.” Dr. Tedros underscored how the climate crisis fuels extreme weather events, resulting in loss of life across the globe. Moreover, it exacerbates the proliferation of infectious and non-communicable diseases and poses a grave threat to food security. Dr. Tedros expressed gratitude to the COP28 UAE Presidency for prioritizing health and designating December 3rd as a dedicated day for health within the COP-28 framework.
Alarming statistics brought to the forefront revealed that one in four deaths can be attributed to preventable environmental causes, with WHO estimating an additional 250,000 lives lost annually due to the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, air pollution, wildfires, and compromised water, land, and food security exact a devastating toll, impacting infectious diseases, heat-related illnesses, noncommunicable diseases, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
This gathering of global leaders represents a critical milestone in recognizing the inextricable link between climate and health. The discussions held during this momentous event are set to significantly shape the agenda of COP-28, forging global cooperation to confront the profound health implications posed by climate change.
