Climate change is increasingly a public health emergency in a world that has already entered a period of temperature overshoot. Rising heat, worsening air pollution, water insecurity, food system disruption and extreme weather are already placing growing strain on health systems and shortening lives, particularly in the most vulnerable communities. This report argues that Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) should be reframed as tools for protecting human health as well as stabilising the climate. By embedding health outcomes directly into climate policy, governments can strengthen public support, accelerate implementation and deliver immediate benefits such as cleaner air, safer homes, resilient cities and healthier diets.
The report outlines practical policy actions across six critical areas of climate response: energy and transport, nature and biodiversity, agriculture and food systems, building resilience, human and social development and enablers and accelerators. It shows that many of the most effective climate policies also deliver rapid health benefits and economic gains. In a period of climate overshoot, health-centred climate action provides governments with a clearer mandate to act, a stronger economic case for transition and a practical framework for reducing harm while accelerating long-term decarbonisation.
- Moving away from fossil fuels toward electrified systems and renewable energy rapidly improves air quality: Electrification of transport, industry and homes reduces exposure to harmful pollution, lowers respiratory and cardiovascular disease, and creates cleaner and safer urban environments.
- Healthy ecosystems regulate heat, protect water systems, stabilise food production and support mental wellbeing: Integrating nature-based solutions into climate policy can reduce extreme weather risks, improve urban environments and strengthen long-term resilience for vulnerable communities.
- Food systems are a major driver of greenhouse gas emissions while also shaping global health outcomes: Reforming agricultural practices, reducing food waste and improving access to nutritious diets can simultaneously lower emissions, improve nutrition and strengthen food security.
- Cities face growing threats from heatwaves, flooding and water insecurity: Climate-resilient infrastructure, early warning systems and safer housing can reduce preventable deaths, maintain essential services and protect communities as climate impacts intensify.
- Policies that support livelihoods, reduce inequality and empower communities improve public health while strengthening society’s ability to respond to climate shocks: Local engagement, transparent communication and preparedness measures help communities recover faster from disasters and build long-term resilience.
- Clear policy signals, alignedfinancial systems and the phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies can accelerate thetransition to cleaner energy and healthier living environments: When the full health andeconomic costs of fossil fuels are accounted for, climate action becomes aclear economic and social opportunity.
