New findings from The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change 2024 show that global climate change is now a leading threat to human health worldwide. From increased health risks due to extreme heat to disrupted food supplies, people in every country face escalating climate-related dangers. In 2023 alone, people endured on average 50 extra days of dangerous heat exposure. Extreme drought affected nearly half of the global land area.
The report underscores that despite clear financial resources available to cut emissions and improve health, governments and corporations are stalling. Instead of accelerating green energy, they continue investments in fossil fuels, putting billions at risk. Authors argue that this dangerous delay is a pivotal failure. They urge for an urgent shift in resources towards climate adaptation.
DROUGHT, HEAT, AND FOOD INSECURITY HIT NEW HIGHS
Extreme droughts in 2023 affected 48% of land globally, ranking among the most severe events recorded. Extreme heat and droughts are becoming more common. An estimated 151 million more people suffered food insecurity in 2022 compared to 1981-2010 levels. Rising temperatures are also expected to drive heat-related deaths above cold-related ones, particularly in low-income countries.
PERSISTENT FOSSIL FUEL INVESTMENTS THREATEN CLIMATE GOALS
Despite the urgent need to reduce emissions, fossil fuel investments rose to record levels in 2023. Over 36% of global energy funding was directed to these harmful energy sources. Greenhouse gas emissions from energy alone hit an all-time high, rising 1.1% from 2022. Instead of shifting to clean energy, many governments increased fossil fuel subsidies. This happened in response to high energy prices. In 47 countries, fossil subsidies surpassed 10% of national health spending.
Climate-Driven Health Impacts: Alarming Global Statistics
Data reveals that 2023 was the hottest year recorded, with extreme heat and deadly weather events affecting communities everywhere. The health effects are severe—heat-related deaths in people over 65 rose by 167% above 1990s levels. Added heat exposure poses a serious risk for workers. Global labor loss is estimated at $835 billion due to heat. This figure impacts GDP in low- and middle-income countries.
MALNUTRITION AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES SPREAD
Shifting climate conditions fuel an increase in infectious diseases, particularly mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, which hit record levels in 2023. Warmer, more humid conditions have also heightened the risk of water contamination, impacting already-vulnerable communities.
CURRENT FOSSIL FUEL SPENDING WORSENS HEALTH THREATS
Authors argue that with $1.4 trillion invested in fossil fuel subsidies in 2022, these funds could support renewable energy. This would offer immediate health benefits. Clean energy use is increasing, with a record high of 10.5% of global electricity generated by renewables. As renewable energy employment hit 13.7 million in 2022, the report shows that investing in green solutions is economically feasible and creates sustainable jobs.
VULNERABLE POPULATIONS FACE GREATER CLIMATE-DRIVEN HEALTH THREATS
The report notes a growing burden on resource-limited communities who suffer disproportionately from climate change. Limited adaptation options mean these communities face higher risks, worsening existing health inequities. The report calls for increased financial support for health infrastructure, with universal health coverage critical to withstand climate impacts.
EXPERTS ADVOCATE FOR FINANCIAL SYSTEM REFORM TO SUPPORT HEALTH AND CLIMATE
Experts, including Lancet Countdown co-author Prof. Anthony Costello, stress that health needs must lead climate policy. A transition towards zero-emissions financing is critical to drive the rapid changes needed to protect public health. By redirecting fossil subsidies towards sustainable investments, experts argue that governments can avert further health crises while supporting economic resilience.
As COP29 approaches, experts highlight that governments have an unprecedented opportunity. They can shape financial policy that aligns with health and climate objectives. Support from stakeholders worldwide is essential. Scientists, corporations, and international bodies can accelerate climate resilience and protect health. This collective effort makes a tangible difference in people’s lives.
CLEAR CALLS FOR ACTION AMID RECORD-BREAKING CLIMATE DATA
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has responded strongly. He urges immediate action to slash emissions. It is crucial to protect vulnerable populations. We must also break fossil fuel dependence. The report underscores that a health-centered approach to climate change could change millions of lives. Yet, without redirected financial investments, the record-breaking impacts of climate change threaten billions.
