Session 2: Climate Change - Varied Challenges across the Region. What should NPHIs do now?
On April 18, 2024, session 2 of the Europe Network Meeting addressed the intersection of climate change and public health, focusing on how climate-related challenges impact health outcomes. Strategies for mitigating the health effects of climate change, adaptation measures, and the role of public health institutes in addressing climate-related health issues have been discussed. Moderated by Prof. Enver Roshi, Lecturer of Public Health, National Focal Point, Institute of Public Health, Albania, the session aimed to raise awareness, share knowledge, and explore collaborative approaches to address this pressing issue.
The Health Impact Of Climate Change in Wales: a Health Impact Assessment
By Dr. Liz Green, FFPH, ACIEH, Consultant in Public Health, Policy and International Health and Program Director for Health Impact Assessment, Public Health Wales, United Kingdom
Dr. Liz Green delivered an insightful presentation on a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) concerning climate change in Wales. The HIA aimed to explore the health and well-being impacts of climate change through a multi-dimensional approach, focusing on social determinants of health beyond environmental factors. It involved a participatory approach, engaging key stakeholders and establishing a strategic advisory group. The assessment identified both negative and positive impacts of climate change on various social determinants of health, including physical activity, mental health, and well-being. Moreover, the HIA provided a granular breakdown of how different population groups and geographical areas would be impacted, allowing for targeted interventions. The assessment's outputs, including infographics used at COP 26, have informed adaptation planning and policy in Wales and garnered international recognition, with other national public health institutes replicating the approach.
Manifestations of Climate Change Impacts on Health and Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in Montenegro
By Prof. Dragan Laušević, Director, Institute of Public Health of Montenegro (IJZCG), Montenegro
Prof. Dragan Laušević provided an insightful overview of climate change impacts on health and adaptation strategies in Montenegro. He began by showcasing information from the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, illustrating the profound impact of climate change on human health. Using data from the European Climate Risk Assessment, he highlighted increasing climate risks in South Europe, including rising temperatures, heatwaves, sea surface temperatures, and precipitation changes leading to droughts. He emphasized the importance of data provided by key actors such as the Institute for Hydrometeorology and Seismology to understand climate change impacts in Montenegro and the health risks posed by climate change, such as heatwaves, floods, and forest fires, leading to potential mortality rates and the importance of adaptation measures within the health sector. Then, he addressed adaptation and mitigation strategies implemented in the country, including ratification of key climate change conventions, legislative frameworks, and the development of climate change adaptation plans.
Prof. Laušević stressed the need for education and awareness-raising campaigns, particularly targeting vulnerable groups, to mitigate the health impacts of climate change. He also discussed initiatives such as urban greening, emphasizing the importance of balancing positive health effects with potential risks of vector-borne diseases. In conclusion, he underscored the urgency of addressing climate change as a complex global challenge, highlighting Montenegro's active efforts in implementing climate policies at both national and international levels.
Manifestations of Climate Change Impacts on Health and Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in Portugal
By Ms. Cristina Abreu Santos, Member of the Executive Board, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Portugal
Ms. Cristina Abreu Santos provided a comprehensive overview of climate change impacts on public health in Portugal. She highlighted Portugal's active engagement in international agreements and legislative frameworks to combat climate change. The presentation focused on the National Institute of Health (INSA) and its efforts in surveillance, monitoring, risk assessments, and decision-making support. Challenges such as resource shortages, particularly in retaining skilled personnel, were acknowledged. Examples of INSA's initiatives included real-time public dashboards for heat and cold wave risk assessment, integrated surveillance of vector-borne diseases, and research on climate change's impact on food production and nutrition.
Ms. Abreu Santos emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and research in monitoring environmental contaminants and their health impacts. She showcased projects funded by European grants, demonstrating efforts to raise awareness and improve decision-making regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. Finally, she concluded with a call for investment and resource allocation to address the challenges posed by climate change on public health.
Manifestations of Climate Change Impacts on Health and Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies in Finland
By Prof. Dr. Mika Salminen, Director General, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Finland
Prof. Mika Salminen began his presentation by noting the unusual prediction of snow in Helsinki, highlighting the relevance of the topic. Prof. Salminen discussed health risks and effects, emphasizing Finland's distinct scale of adaptation to heat. He highlighted concerns such as vector-borne diseases, citing examples of tick-borne illnesses.
The presentation addressed infrastructure challenges, including the lack of air conditioning in nursing homes, rendering vulnerable populations more susceptible to extreme temperatures. Prof. Salminen also discussed the impact of changing snowfall patterns on accidents and mental health. Finland's national response to climate change includes a comprehensive adaptation plan launched in 2021 by the Minister of Social Affairs and Health in collaboration with various stakeholders. The adaptation plan includes 92 action points covering a range of measures including enhancing infrastructure resilience, implementing early warning systems, and improving healthcare facilities' capacity to cope with extreme weather events. The plan also emphasizes the importance of collaboration across sectors and the need for systematic monitoring to track progress and effectiveness.
Challenges include the need for concrete plans, multi-dimensional responsibilities, and sustainable policy-based actions. Prof. Salminen emphasized the importance of systematic monitoring and collaboration across sectors to address climate change effectively. Finally, the presentation ended with a powerful statement by Prof. Salminen on the Finnish Institute's commitment to global health and its mission to ensure sustainable well-being for all.
Presentation of the Work of the IANPHI Committee on Climate Change and Public Health
By Prof. Enver Roshi Lecturer of Public Health, National Focal Point, Institute of Public Health, Albania
The presentation began by stressing the global significance of climate change and its effects on various aspects of life, including human health. Prof. Enver Roshi outlined the objectives and activities of the committee, which was established to promote international collaboration among National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) and other stakeholders in addressing climate change's health impacts. Key initiatives discussed included the development of the EMP Climate Road Map, which advocates for the role of NPHIs in climate adaptation and mitigation. Subgroups were formed within the committee to focus on specific areas such as One Health adaptation and risk assessment.
Prof. Roshi also outlined five priority areas identified by the committee for its 2024-2025 work plan:
- Advocacy for strengthening NPHIs' capacity in climate and geodiversity.
- Research, policy, and action to enhance capacity and competence.
- Collaboration with international and regional organizations.
- Supporting the greening of public health services.
- Monitoring NPHIs' progress in climate change involvement.
Prof. Roshi emphasized the importance of promoting international collaboration, particularly for NPHIs in countries with limited resources. The presentation concluded with a call to translate scientific findings into policy and practice, emphasizing the importance of increasing public awareness and individual responsibility for environmental stewardship. Therefore, Prof Roshi underscored the need for evidence-based approaches and highlighted the role of NPHIs as trusted advisors in public health.
Panel Discussion
Moderated by Prof. Enver Roshi Lecturer of Public Health, National Focal Point, Institute of Public Health, Albania
Following the presentations, all speakers gathered on stage to discuss mitigation strategies, including waste reduction in healthcare delivery systems to minimize carbon footprints. They presented the implementation of changes within their organizations and highlighted the importance of translating political advocacy into action and implementing measures to address climate change and public health issues at all levels of governance.
A consensus emerged on the role of public health institutes in promoting policy change and influencing decision-making processes. Participants acknowledged the trust placed in these institutions and stressed the need for them to play an active role in tackling climate change and other public health issues.
The session ended with a call to action, suggesting that climate change and health should be integrated into all policy decisions. Speakers pledged to work together to tackle these challenges effectively.