Call for emergency action to limit global temperature increases, restore biodiversity and protect health
2021
Call for urgent action on climate change and health
Editorial
Author Information
Author(s): Atwoli Lukoye, H Baqui Abdullah, Benfield Thomas, Bosurgi Raffaella, Godlee Fiona, Hancocks Stephen, Horton Richard, Laybourn-Langton Laurie, Monteiro Carlos Augusto, Norman Ian, Patrick Kirsten, Praities Nigel, Rikkert Marcel GM Olde, Rubin Eric J, Sahni Peush, Smith Richard, Talley Nicholas J, Turale Sue, Vázquez Damián
Primary Institution: UK Health Alliance on Climate Change
Conclusion
We must make urgent, society-wide changes to keep global temperature rise below 1.5°C and restore nature for a healthier world.
Supporting Evidence
- Health is already being harmed by global temperature increases and the destruction of the natural world.
- Heat-related mortality among people aged over 65 has increased by more than 50% in the past 20 years.
- Global heating is contributing to the decline in global yield potential for major crops.
- Thriving ecosystems are essential to human health, and the destruction of nature is eroding water and food security.
- Health professionals are united with environmental scientists in rejecting the notion that catastrophic outcomes are inevitable.
Takeaway
The world needs to act quickly to stop climate change and protect our health, especially for vulnerable people. If we don't, things could get really bad.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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