Zero regrets: scaling up action on climate change mitigation and adaptation for health in the WHO European Region, second edition. Key messages from the Working Group on Health in Climate Change

Abstract

The imperative to protect and improve the health of current and future generations is one of the strongest arguments for action on climate change and sustainable development. This paper emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures by the Member States in the WHO European Region to address climate change and its impact on human health, without incurring regrets in the future for missed opportunities. It encourages implementation of strategies that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance resilience and preparedness in health-care systems, promoting sustainable and healthy communities. The paper aims to provide a backdrop and to support uptake and implementation of the climate change and health-related commitments put forward by Member States at the Seventh Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health in Budapest, Hungary, on 5–7 July 2023, and the health messaging during upcoming engagements on climate change and health.