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Major new climate report warns next generation will face severe health issues

A major new report has set out the health difficulties that will be faced by an entire generation...
Michael Staines
Michael Staines

07.15 14 Nov 2019


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Major new climate report warns next generation will face severe health issues


Michael Staines
Michael Staines

07.15 14 Nov 2019


Share this article


A major new report has set out the health difficulties that will be faced by an entire generation if the world doesn’t reverse course on climate change.

Research from 35 global institutions, published in the Lancet Medical Journal, warns that children born today will face an average temperature rise of 4C by the time they are in their 70s.

The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change notes that they will face malnutrition, rising food prices and an increase in infectious diseases.

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Meanwhile, worsening air quality will increase the risk of lung disease, heart attacks and stroke – with the healthcare costs in Europe alone reaching €129bn a year by the time current generation reaches old age.

Climate Air pollution in Narayanganj, Bangladesh, 07-11-2019. Image: Suvra Kanti Das/ZUMA Wire

Dr Nick Watts, Executive Director of The Lancet Countdown, said children are “particularly vulnerable to the health risks of a changing climate.”

“Their bodies and immune systems are still developing – leaving them more susceptible to disease and environmental pollutants,” he said.

“The damage done in early childhood is persistent and pervasive, with health consequences lasting for a lifetime.

“Without immediate action from all countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions, gains in wellbeing and life expectancy will be compromised and climate change will come to define the health of an entire generation.”

The annual report tracks progress across 41 key climate indicators mean for human health.

It is a collaboration between 120 experts from 35 major institutions around the world.

Lancet Countdown co-chair Professor Hugh Montgomery said the “accelerating impacts of climate change have become clearer than ever” in this year’s report.

“The highest recorded temperatures in Western Europe and wildfires in Siberia, Queensland, and California triggered asthma, respiratory infections and heat stroke.

“Sea levels are now rising at an ever concerning rate.

“Our children recognize this Climate Emergency and demand action to protect them. We must listen, and respond.”

The report warns that “nothing short of a 7.4% year-on-year cut in fossil fuel CO2 emissions” from now until 2050 can protect the health of the next generation.

It notes that phasing-out coal generated power and ensuring high-income countries meet financial climate commitments will be key to turning the tide.


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