Scientists call for climate change to be declared a global health emergency

A recent Lancet Countdown report highlights the accelerating health risks from climate change, urging it to be declared a global health emergency. The report, backed by 146 experts, indicates that health-related damages have increased significantly since the Paris Agreement. While there have been improvements in clean energy investments and health systems, they are insufficient to counteract the rapid rise in climate-related health issues. The report emphasizes the need for health to be central in climate policies and funding priorities, especially ahead of the upcoming COP 31 conference. It also notes the economic impact of heat on productivity, particularly in agriculture and construction, and warns against continued fossil fuel subsidies that hinder progress.