156th Session of the WHO Executive Board, Agenda Item 22
Climate change and health
Thank you Chair,
Climate change is increasingly impacting on every aspect of our lives and, as identified in the draft global action plan, is linked to other global challenges including AMR and pandemic outbreaks.
It is reassuring that the document also recognises the need to ensure resources meant for primary healthcare are not diverted, and feel it is important to again stress this point.
While we wholeheartedly support the objective to lead by example, the plan stops short of calling for end to dependence on fossil fuels. This is a missed opportunity to once and for all call-out those with an interest in maintaining the status quo.
The effects of climate change are not felt equally. While reference is made to vulnerable populations, more specific actions are needed to protect those already enduring the brunt of climate breakdown.