The Climate Crisis is a Health Crisis: Urgent Action Needed, New Lancet Countdown Report reveals
The escalating climate crisis is no longer a future threat - itS a present-day health emergency. A stark warning comes from the 2024 Global Report of the Lancet Countdown on Health adn Climate Change, revealing a world increasingly burdened by the direct and indirect health consequences of a warming planet. This comprehensive assessment,now in its ninth year and led by University College London in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and 71 global institutions,underscores the critical need to prioritize health within climate action,particularly as the world prepares for COP30 in belém,Brazil.
A Growing Toll on human Health
The report paints a concerning picture of escalating health risks directly linked to climate change.Key findings demonstrate a clear and worsening trend:
* Food Insecurity Amplified: Droughts and extreme heat in 2023 contributed to moderate or severe food insecurity for an additional 124 million people globally. This highlights the vulnerability of food systems to climate shocks and the resulting impact on nutrition and public health.
* Economic Burden of Heat: The economic consequences of rising temperatures are substantial. In 2024 alone, heat exposure resulted in the loss of 640 billion potential labor hours, equating to a staggering US$1.09 trillion in productivity losses. Furthermore, heat-related deaths among older adults cost US$261 billion. These figures demonstrate the meaningful economic strain placed on societies by climate change.
* Fossil Fuel Financing Undermines Progress: despite pledges to support climate-vulnerable nations, global governments continue to heavily subsidize fossil fuels. In 2023, net fossil fuel subsidies reached US$956 billion – more than three times the amount pledged for climate support. This misallocation of resources hinders the transition to a lasting future and exacerbates the health impacts of climate change.
Though, the report isn’t solely doom and gloom. It also highlights the significant health benefits of climate action:
* Air Quality Improvements: Reducing reliance on coal has already yielded tangible health benefits. Between 2010 and 2022,an estimated 160,000 premature deaths were avoided annually due to reduced outdoor air pollution from coal.
* Renewable Energy Growth & Job Creation: The renewable energy sector is booming, reaching a record 12% of global electricity generation and creating 16 million jobs worldwide. This demonstrates the potential for a just transition - one that protects both the planet and livelihoods.
* Climate & Health Education Expanding: A promising trend is the increasing integration of climate and health education into medical curricula. In 2024, two-thirds of medical students received training in this crucial area, equipping future healthcare professionals to address the health challenges of a changing climate.
Cities, Communities, and the Health Sector Leading the Charge
While national-level commitments sometimes falter, the report showcases inspiring leadership at the local and sectoral levels. Nearly all reporting cities (834 of 858) have either completed or are actively planning climate risk assessments. This proactive approach is crucial for building resilience and protecting vulnerable populations.
The health sector itself is demonstrating significant commitment. Globally, health-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions fell by 16% between 2021 and 2022 while simultaneously improving care quality.This demonstrates that reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare is not only possible but can also enhance patient outcomes.
Furthermore, the WHO reports that a growing number of countries are preparing for the health impacts of climate change: 58% of Member States have completed a health Vulnerability and Adaptation assessment, and 60% have developed a Health National Adaptation Plan.
COP30: A Critical Prospect to Prioritize Health
The findings of the Lancet Countdown report serve as a vital evidence base for accelerating health-centered climate action, particularly as the world prepares for COP30 in Brazil. The WHO will contribute to this momentum with a dedicated COP30 Special Report on Climate Change and Health, outlining the necessary policies and investments to safeguard health, promote equity, and deliver on the expected Belém Action Plan.
The Path Forward: A Call for Urgent and Integrated Action
Dr. Marina romanello, Executive Director of the Lancet Countdown at University College London, emphasizes the urgency of the situation: “We already have the solutions at hand to avoid a climate catastrophe - and communities and local governments around the world are proving that progress is possible.From clean energy growth to city adaptation, action is underway and delivering real health benefits – but we must keep up the momentum.”
The report underscores that rapidly phasing out fossil fuels in favor of clean, renewable energy
