What's Happening?
The World Health Professions Alliance (WHPA) is urging global leaders at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, to prioritize health professionals in the implementation
of the Belém Health Action Plan. This plan aims to create climate-resilient and sustainable health systems. The WHPA, representing over 41 million healthcare professionals worldwide, emphasizes the need for urgent, coordinated action to build health systems that protect both patients and healthcare workers. The Belém Health Action Plan, developed by Brazil's Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), focuses on three main pillars: surveillance and monitoring, evidence-based policy strategies, and innovation in health technology production. The plan aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the health sector while maintaining quality care.
Why It's Important?
The integration of climate considerations into healthcare is crucial as climate change poses significant health risks, including changing disease patterns and increased demand for health services during extreme weather events. By focusing on health professionals, the plan seeks to ensure that healthcare systems are prepared to address these challenges. The WHPA's advocacy highlights the importance of investing in the health workforce, which is essential for maintaining resilient and high-quality healthcare systems. This initiative also underscores the broader recognition of health as a central component of climate action, aligning with global efforts to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
What's Next?
The Belém Health Action Plan is set to be adopted during COP30 Health Day on November 13, 2025. The WHPA encourages WHO and the COP30 Presidency to engage health professionals in the plan's development and implementation. Brazil plans to announce endorsements from various Ministries of Health, committing to advance the plan through national initiatives. The plan's success will depend on the collaboration of governments, civil society, and international organizations to integrate climate health considerations across all policies. The upcoming Global Stocktake will assess progress toward the Paris Agreement goals, with the Belém Health Action Plan serving as a key framework for addressing climate-related health challenges.
Beyond the Headlines
The Belém Health Action Plan emphasizes climate justice and health equity, recognizing that climate change impacts are unequal and require targeted responses. Indigenous and Quilombola communities are highlighted as essential partners in preserving biodiversity and implementing effective climate solutions. The plan also considers innovative measures, such as adjusting hospital care during extreme heat and creating clinical protocols for temperature variations. These efforts reflect a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of climate and health, and the need for comprehensive strategies to address these challenges.
