Abstract:

IPCC Working Group II has recently released the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) of “Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability”, in which Chapter 7 “Health, wellbeing and the changing structure of communities” assessed the current impacts, and projected future risks of climate change for health and wellbeing, taking into consideration determinants of vulnerability and the dynamic structure of human populations and communities. Particular attention is given to potential adaptation challenges and actions, as well as the potential of co-benefits for health associated with mitigation actions. The report clearly shows that climate-related illnesses, premature deaths, malnutrition in all its forms, and threats to mental health and wellbeing, are increasing. Cascading and compounding risks affecting health due to extreme weather events have been observed in all inhabited regions, and risks are expected to increase with further warming. Sustainable and climate-resilient development that increases timely and effective adaptation and mitigation more broadly, has the potential to reduce but not necessarily eliminate climate change impacts on health and wellbeing. The AR6 report highlights the severity of health effects of climate crisis and the urgent need to increase scientific and technological innovation, planning, action and funding support in the field of climate change adaptation.

Key words: Climate change, Health impact, Vulnerable population, Projected risk, Adaptation strategy