WS 04 - Climate Resilient Health Systems within the One Health Framework

Long being on the sidelines of the climate debate, the role of health and the health impacts are now increasingly mainstreamed into the climate discussions and national adaptation action plans. As we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize the importance of strengthening our early warning and surveillance systems and increasing the resilience of health systems in view to future pandemics and the impacts of climate change alike. The numerous ties between health and climate leave us with numerous unfinished tasks on the health side, such as harnessing healthcare workers as trusted messengers to advocate for climate action or fostering carbon-neutral health systems.

At the same time, health is inadequately incorporated in all climate policies, making up only a small percentage of multilateral climate financing. What are the unused opportunities and barriers to accelerate the building of resilient health systems in line with One Health? How can healthcare systems and healthcare professionals contribute to mitigation and adaptation? And which commitments are desired from the upcoming COP26 and the COP26 - Health and Climate conference?