The Academy of Medical Sciences has released a statement on climate change to coincide with the publication in the Lancet of a series of studies on the impact of strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on public health.

On the release of the statement Academy President, Professor Sir John Bell FRS HonFREng PMedSci said, 'Climate change poses a major threat to the health of populations across the globe. It will have an effect on food, water, air, shelter and social stability - any adverse changes to these will ultimately impact on global health. To minimise the extent of climate change all nations must take immediate and substantial action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The longer we delay the more severe the impacts on health become.

The Academy welcomes the publication of studies in the Lancet showing that mitigation strategies can have major health benefits whilst also reducing the impact of climate change. These co benefits add weight to the already compelling arguments for reduction of emissions. They indicate a potential for 'win-win' policies that contribute to climate protection whilst improving health. The sooner we mitigate the greater the chance of preventing the worst impacts of climate change and reaping the co-benefits to health.

Leaders of nations around the world will meet in Copenhagen in December 2009 to agree strategies to combat the growing dangers of climate change. A statement published today by the Academy of Medical Sciences urges them to do so with the health of all nations in mind.' The full statement is available here.

Source
Academy of Medical Sciences