COP30: Climate crisis is a health crisis, WHO warns as philanthropies pledge $300m for solutions

The WHO, Brazilian Government, and a coalition of philanthropies are calling for urgent action to protect health systems in a warming world, as 1 in 12 hospitals could face climate-related shutdowns. With global temperatures already above 1.5°C and billions living in highly vulnerable areas, the health sector's 5% contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions underscores the need for a transition to low-carbon systems. Gaps in health adaptation planning, including risks to health facilities and marginalized populations, must be addressed. Ms. Maciel stresses the importance of training health professionals to address climate-related extreme events and adapting healthcare systems to climate impacts, with a focus on monitoring data, building resilience, and promoting research and innovation for heat-resistant medicines and vaccines. She warns of potential health risks in the Amazon due to deforestation and urges effective implementation of the Belém Health Action Plan to mitigate these threats.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/11/1166369