Understanding the Indivisible Crisis: How Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss Impact Global Health

by Jon Scaccia December 27, 2023

Over 200 health journals are urging a unified response to the climate and nature crisis. As detailed in the article “Time to treat the climate and nature crisis as one indivisible global health emergency, published in Oxford Open Climate Change, the intersection of these crises is now a global health emergency demanding immediate action.

Traditionally, climate change and biodiversity loss have been approached as separate challenges. This dichotomy, however, is a perilous oversight. The impending 28th Conference of the Parties (COP) on climate change and the 16th COP on biodiversity symbolize this fragmented approach. Yet, a significant realization emerged from a 2020 workshop: these crises are interlinked parts of a larger, complex problem. Addressing them in isolation risks maladaptation and undermines potential beneficial outcomes.

The concept of planetary health recognizes the interconnectedness of the natural world. For instance, climate-induced phenomena like droughts and wildfires destroy ecosystems and exacerbate global warming through feedback loops. Similarly, actions beneficial for one aspect of the environment may inadvertently harm another, such as mono-species reforestation efforts that can reduce biodiversity, a key component of healthy ecosystems.

The implications for public health are profound. Both crises directly harm human health, as documented in numerous editorials. Climate change amplifies risks like extreme weather, air pollution, and the spread of diseases, while biodiversity loss affects food systems, water quality, and disease emergence. The UN Secretary-General’s statement, “Without nature, we have nothing,” underscores the gravity of these interrelated crises.

Indigenous land and sea management practices play a crucial role in environmental regeneration and maintenance. Additionally, addressing these crises presents opportunities to improve public health. For example, restoring ecosystems can aid in carbon sequestration, and high-quality green spaces in urban areas offer numerous health benefits, from air purification to mental well-being.

However, the health impacts of these crises are unevenly distributed, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. This inequality amplifies the urgency for a coordinated response.

Recognizing the severity and interconnectedness of these issues, the World Health Organization (WHO) is urged to declare the climate and nature crisis a global health emergency. Such a declaration aligns with the WHO’s criteria for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern and would catalyze necessary international action.

As the 77th World Health Assembly approaches in May 2024, the call is clear: harmonize the COP processes and advocate for integrated national plans addressing climate change and biodiversity. Health professionals, political leaders, and the global community must acknowledge and confront this crisis for our collective health.

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