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Written by Fatima Pillosu, PhD student in the Department of Geography, University of Reading, UK.
Escalating Health Threats Amidst a Warming Climate
The 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change reveals a concerning rise in health-related climate threats. In 2023, individuals worldwide experienced an average of 50 additional days of health-threatening temperatures due to climate change. Nearly half of the global land area (48%) faced at least a month of extreme drought in 2023, exacerbating food insecurity for 151 million additional people compared to previous decades. Simultaneously, 61% of global land is experiencing more extreme rainfall, raising risks of flooding and infectious diseases.
Economic and Health Consequences of Inaction
At the joint WHO/UNICEF/Lancet Countdown press conference on climate and health COP29, experts were clear: the economic toll of climate change is alarming. Over the past five years (2019–2023), extreme weather events have caused average annual losses of $227 billion, disproportionately affecting low-income countries. These events include unprecedented droughts, floods, and wildfires, each contributing to displacement, water contamination, and waterborne disease outbreaks. Rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns have also intensified the spread of climate-sensitive infectious diseases such as malaria and dengue, putting millions of additional lives at risk. Notably, at least 5 million deaths annually are attributed to fossil fuel-related air pollution, including fatalities from heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer.
The Persistent Investment in Fossil Fuels
Despite the clear and present dangers, fossil fuel investments persist. In 2023, over a third of global energy spending went toward fossil fuels, while only a fraction was allocated to clean energy solutions. These investments deepen the climate crisis and disproportionately can often affect vulnerable populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the capacity to adapt remains severely limited.
Pathways to a Healthier, Sustainable Future
The report underscores the potential for transformative change, emphasising that the world has the financial and technological resources to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Redirecting the trillions spent on fossil fuel subsidies toward clean energy initiatives could yield significant health and economic benefits, reducing air pollution, saving millions of lives, and creating sustainable jobs.
Signs of Progress Amidst Challenges
Amidst the alarming data, there are signs of progress. Deaths attributable to air pollution have declined slightly, thanks to reductions in coal use in high-income countries. The share of electricity generated from clean energy sources has doubled since 2016, and investment in renewables continues to grow. These advancements demonstrate that positive change is possible, but the pace of transition must accelerate.
A Call to Integrate Health in Climate Policies
The 2024 Lancet Countdown concludes with a call to action: the world must urgently pivot toward health-centred climate policies. Transitioning to net-zero emissions is essential to prevent further human and economic losses. By prioritising clean energy investments, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and scaling up funding for adaptation, the global community might not only mitigate the climate crisis but also secure a safer, healthier future for generations to come.
The team behind this report, led by Executive Director Marina Romanello, has maintained an extensive presence at COP29, bringing scientific evidence to the negotiation tables to emphasise the urgent need to integrate health into climate policies.