WHO says six climate measures could prevent 1.6 million deaths a year
A World Health Organization report estimates that scaling up six measures—from heat warnings and safer water to cleaner household fuels and more effective fossil-fuel pricing—could prevent 1.6 million deaths each year. The WHO projects annual economic welfare benefits of €3.4 trillion (US$3.9 trillion) and fiscal gains of €4.7 trillion (US$5.4 trillion), ahead of COP31 in Antalya.
Bottom line — The WHO estimates fossil-fuel pricing reforms alone could prevent 1.2 million deaths annually.
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The WHO estimates the six measures could avoid 16.7 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions a year.
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According to the WHO, heat-health warning systems could return €725 (US$835) in benefits for each €1 invested.
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The WHO estimates each €1 invested across five measures would yield €21 (US$24) in benefits.
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The report says low- and middle-income countries could see greater health and economic gains.
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Euronews reports that 3.6 billion people live in areas highly susceptible to climate change and its health effects.