WMO Report Says Climate Change Poses Threat To Global Health, Climate Services Vital
A new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) highlights the critical intersection of climate change and global health. As the planet experiences an unprecedented rate of warming, human well-being is facing increasing risks.
Climate change poses a significant threat to the progress made in improving health and well-being, particularly in vulnerable communities. However, the report emphasizes that with the right resources and expertise, it is possible to address and mitigate these challenges. The report, an annual State of Climate Services publication, spotlights the vital role of climate information and services in combating the effects of extreme weather, poor air quality, shifting disease patterns, and food and water insecurity on public health.
The WMO's Secretary-General, Prof. Petteri Taalas, underscores the gravity of the situation: "Practically the whole planet has experienced heatwaves this year. The onset of El Niño in 2023 will greatly increase the likelihood of breaking temperature records further, triggering more extreme heat in many parts of the world and the ocean – and making the challenge even greater."
The report showcases case studies from around the world, illustrating how the integration of climate and health actions can make a tangible difference in people's daily lives. These success stories encompass early warning systems for extreme heat, pollen monitoring to assist allergy sufferers, and satellite surveillance to monitor climate-sensitive diseases.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasizes the critical connection between climate and health: "The climate crisis is a health crisis, driving more severe and unpredictable weather events, fueling disease outbreaks, and contributing to higher rates of noncommunicable diseases. By working together to make high-quality climate services more accessible to the health sector, we can help protect the health and well-being of people facing the perils of climate change."
The report highlights the alarming impact of extreme heat, which accounts for the highest mortality rates among all extreme weather events. However, the true extent of heat-related deaths is likely underestimated, with the report suggesting that the actual figures could be up to 30 times higher than current records indicate.
Moreover, the report notes that rising temperatures have amplified the risks of food insecurity and are associated with more frequent droughts, heat waves, and their compounding impacts. This has led to a surge in food insecurity and higher rates of noncommunicable diseases.
The changing climate has also facilitated the transmission of various infectious diseases related to water, food, and vectors. For example, dengue, the world's fastest-spreading vector-borne disease, has witnessed increased transmission, and the malaria transmission season has expanded in certain regions.
The report further emphasizes the urgency of addressing air quality issues, noting that efforts to reduce air pollution are vital in mitigating climate change's impact on health. Currently, only a small fraction of climate finance commitments explicitly target air pollution, despite its severe impact on human health.
As global health faces a mounting challenge, the report calls for transformational changes in institutional development and integration between the health and climate sectors. By enhancing climate services and bolstering climate science, nations can better prepare their health systems to address climate-related risks and protect the most vulnerable communities.
The World Meteorological Congress, in collaboration with WHO and other health partners, has approved a 10-year strategy to advance integrated climate, environment, and health science and services from 2023 to 2033. This strategy aims to address the critical challenges posed by climate change and its impact on global health.
The report also features several success stories from around the world, showcasing the benefits of climate services for health, including early warning systems for extreme weather, improved clean water provision, and nutrition through drought anticipation measures, and real-time monitoring of allergens, which have all contributed to improving people's health and well-being.
