Why you can’t afford to ignore WHO and Brazil’s urgent call for the Belém Health Action Plan at COP30

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by WHO, click this post to read the original article.

You’re already living in a time where climate change is more than an environmental issue—it’s a global health emergency. A new special report from the World Health Organization (WHO), Brazil’s Ministry of Health, and the COP30 Presidency reveals that more than 540,000 people die yearly due to extreme heat, and 1 in 12 hospitals are at risk of climate-related shutdowns. The “COP30 Special Report on Health and Climate Change” highlights how rising temperatures and weakened health systems are endangering lives. The Belém Health Action Plan, launched alongside this report, calls for immediate action to protect health in this warming world.

As global temperatures surpass 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, you’re seeing the consequences—billions live in areas highly exposed to climate risks, and healthcare facilities are now 41% more vulnerable to extreme weather than in 1990. Without swift action to reduce carbon emissions, the number of at-risk health facilities could double by mid-century. The health sector itself contributes about 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making a shift to sustainable, low-carbon healthcare systems urgent and necessary.

Despite growing awareness, there are still major gaps in climate-resilient health planning. Less than a third of climate-health assessments consider income or gender, and under 1% include people with disabilities. However, there’s proof that investing in health adaptation works. You’re encouraged to support strategic financing—allocating just 7% of climate adaptation funds to health could protect billions and maintain critical services during climate crises.

There is progress, with more countries now implementing early warning systems for health emergencies, though many low-income and island nations still lack effective defenses. This report urges your government to integrate health into national climate commitments, invest in resilient infrastructure, and empower local communities to take part in climate-health decisions. These steps can help turn scientific evidence into life-saving action.

Additionally, Brazil’s companion report emphasizes the role of social participation in making climate policies inclusive and effective. Together, these reports offer you a roadmap to protect your community’s health through equity, justice, and science-backed strategies. By acting now, you help ensure that your health systems can withstand the worsening effects of climate change.