Published on: 2026-11-04
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
November 4, 2026 Healthcare
According to a report published on Wednesday by the World Health Organization (WHO), six tested practical measures in the fields of climate and health can save 1.6 million lives annually and simultaneously bring trillions of dollars to the global economy.
These measures include the implementation of health risk warning systems during heatwaves; the development of climate-resilient water supply services; the expansion of basic sanitation services; the introduction of hygiene products and handwashing facilities; the use of “cleaner” fuels and technologies for cooking and heating; as well as effective pricing policies in the fossil fuel sector.
These measures could help prevent the release of 16.7 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which corresponds to 31 years of global greenhouse gas emissions excluding land use, land-use change, and forestry.
According to experts, for five out of six measures, every dollar invested will yield 24 dollars in benefits. At the same time, the return is expected to be higher in low- and middle-income countries.
According to experts’ calculations, overall, these measures can generate 3.9 trillion dollars annually, while simultaneously contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions. Furthermore, they are capable of providing the global economy with an additional 5.4 trillion dollars per year in the form of budget revenues.
“Triple dividend”
The report from the World Health Organization became the first comprehensive analysis of the economic and budgetary returns from the widespread implementation of six WHO-recommended measures. The results indicate a “triple dividend” of such actions: a healthier population, lower emissions, and a stronger economy.
The report was published ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP-31), where governments plan to present their new climate commitments. It emphasizes that many health impacts of climate change can be prevented with existing solutions, but such measures need to be implemented not only in the healthcare sector but also in other sectors affecting public health.
“The climate crisis is a health crisis, and a significant portion of the damage it causes can be prevented with the tools we already have,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “As governments prepare for the next round of climate negotiations, protecting health must become a central element of climate change efforts.”
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.