Lancet Countdown Report 2023

A new report by the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change warns of the severe health consequences of climate change in India.

What are the key highlights of the report?

• Rise in temperature- It poses a significant threat to lives, health and wellbeing, leading to an increased risk of death and heat-related diseases.
• Vulnerable group at risk- Due to elevated temperature older individuals, socio economically deprived communities, very young children, pregnant women and those with underlying health issues are particularly at risk.
• Impact on health-

• Economic fallout- Agricultural workers face the brunt experiencing 64% of potential hours lost and 55% of potential income loss.

In 2022, India lost 191 billion labour hours due to heat, which was 54% more than in 1991-2000.

• Urgent call for action- The report stresses the critical need for immediate action, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening local health systems, adapting to climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Air pollution- The report addresses the health impact of air pollution, attributing increasing deaths to small particulate matter (PM2.5) generate from human activities.
• Energy transition- Transition to renewable energy is identified as a crucial step to mitigate air pollution, reduce greenhouse gas emission and promote universal, affordable and clean energy.
• Drought - India’s vulnerability to extreme weather events including drought is outlined impacting crop yields, livestock and food security.
• Spread of diseases- The suitability for the spread of infectious diseases like malaria, dengue has increased due to climate change.
• Local engagement- The report emphasized the importance of locally relevant data and research to inform policies and enable government to take a leading role in championing health centered climate action.
• Global collaboration- The report gives a call for global collaboration to address the urgent challenges posed by the climate change.

What lies ahead?

• Climate negotiations must drive a rapid and sustained shift away from fossil fuels, accelerate mitigation, and increase support for health adaptation.
• The coordinated action of health professionals, policy makers, corporations, and financial institutions is the need of the hour to ensure a thriving future.
• Health-centred urban redesign can promote safe active travel, reduce building and transport-based air pollution and GHG emissions, and increase resilience to climate hazards