What is Climate Change?
Climate change is defined as the long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns and its effects on Earth’s climate system. It is mainly caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, leading to the warming of the planet. Climate change has wide-ranging impacts, including rising sea-level, more frequent and intense extreme weather events like heat waves or cold waves, flood and drought, changes in precipitation patterns, and disruptions to ecosystems. It can affect our health, ability to grow food, housing, safety and work.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was formed by the United Nations in 1988 to periodically assess the scientific, technical, and socio-economic aspects of climate change. It examines potential risks and impacts, and provides strategies for mitigation and adaptation. The IPCC has more than 196 member countries and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. India is a contributing member of the IPCC.
Impact of Climate Change on Health
Climate Change has a significant and wide range of impacts on human health, affecting both physical and mental well-being. It can have several negative effects on human health including water and food-related illnesses, respiratory and heart diseases, poor mental health, injuries and even death. Climate change can also lead to increased frequency of extreme weather events like flooding and extreme heat, increased food and water scarcity, and economic loss that often leads to human migration and conflict.
In this article, we will study climate change, its impact on health, the COP28 UAE declaration on climate and health, the Indian Government initiative and some mitigating measures.
Table of Content
- Impact of Climate Change on Health
- COP28 UAE Declaration on Climate and Health
- Indian Government Initiatives
- Key Facts from WHO
- Some Ways to Mitigate the Health Impacts of Climate Change