ESR Science Leader on Climate Health Impacts Dr Anglea Baschieri comments on COP 29, the UN Climate Change Conference taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 to 22 November 2024.
"Climate change is the defining health challenge of our times. Its impacts are complex and far-reaching, touching every determinant of health: the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the stability of our socio-economic systems and health infrastructure," says Dr Baschieri.
"Climate change drives ill health through direct and indirect pathways, and any delay in transitioning from fossil fuels will lead to further avoidable health impacts. Evidence suggests that adaptation becomes increasingly difficult beyond certain levels of warming, emphasizing the urgent need to accelerate action."
"This week COP29 hosted by the Republic of Azerbaijan in Baku will centre discussions on finance, transforming systems and cities, strengthening human capital, supporting adaptation and resilience, and protecting the most vulnerable communities.
"The WHO, together with the broader health sector, is intensifying efforts and will release a special report on Climate and Health with the COP29 Presidency. This report outlines priority actions for the global health community, governments, and policymakers, calling for urgent responses to the ongoing climate and health crises. To safeguard public health, countries must urgently scale up their Health National Adaptation Plans (HNAPs); New Zealand recently released a report highlighting the need for concrete action and leadership in this area.
"Ambitious action to halt and reverse the climate crisis has the potential to yield significant health benefits. The report which has undergone a wider consultation calls for progress on human capital, with investment in the health workforce, and emphasizes greening health infrastructure to promote healthy populations. It advocates for smart, healthy cities through improved urban planning, sustainable energy, transport, food systems, water, and sanitation.
"This year, COP29 provides a critical opportunity to galvanize global efforts for stronger national action on climate and health. By scaling up commitments to both mitigation and adaptation, we can protect health systems, build resilience, and drive forward a healthier, more sustainable future and protect health and the environment – for us and for future generations," says Dr Baschieri.
