Urgent action is needed to mitigate the health impacts of climate change, especially for the health of children and future generations.
In the lead-up to Australia’s federal election, doctors and health researchers are intensifying their calls for climate action, emphasizing the severe and escalating health risks posed by global warming. As an epidemiologist, Professor Fiona Stanley argues that climate change presents an unprecedented health challenge, with rising temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events already jeopardizing public health.
Professor Stanley highlights the increasing frequency of heatwaves, such as in Perth, where days over 35°C are becoming more common. In 2021, Perth experienced 28 days above this threshold, with projections indicating this number could surpass 40 days by 2036. These rising temperatures are just one aspect of a broader climate crisis, which also includes more intense fire seasons, rising sea levels, and heavier rainfall that contribute to floods, air pollution, and mental health strain.
The impact on young people is particularly concerning. Climate-related disasters like the 2019/2020 bushfires and recent floods have led to direct health consequences, such as respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as well as mental health challenges exacerbated by the constant threat of extreme events. The mental health burden is also being felt by children, who are increasingly fearful of a climate disaster in the future.
Professor Stanley stresses that the health risks associated with climate change are already being felt by Australians, but the most vulnerable group is children. With the ongoing threat of environmental degradation and worsening health outcomes, the responsibility to protect future generations from the harmful effects of climate change has never been more urgent.
The recent court ruling that reversed a decision requiring the Australian government to assess the impact of fossil fuel projects on children’s health only further underscores the need for systemic changes to safeguard the well-being of young people and future generations.
The call to action is clear: there is an immediate need to cut emissions and implement policies that protect the health of all Australians, especially children, from the ongoing and escalating impacts of climate change.
