With the world edging closer to critical climate thresholds, global experts are calling for urgent, coordinated action led by China and the U.S. 🌍🔥
At the 5th World Health Forum in Beijing, the theme "Climate Change and Health: Responsibility, Governance, and a Shared Future for Mankind" brought together policymakers, scientists, and civil society.
Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon opened with a powerful message: "I appeal to you all… to address the most urgent, imminent threat to our humanity and the planet Earth."
According to a 2024 report by the World Meteorological Organization, there is now a 70% chance that average temperatures between 2025 and 2029 will exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. 2024 was confirmed as the warmest year on record, at about 1.55°C above the 1850-1900 baseline.
These rising temperatures threaten air quality, increase heat-related illnesses, and shift infectious disease patterns. Experts agree that leadership from the world’s two largest economies is crucial.
China’s Climate-Health Strategy
Over the past decade, China has woven climate adaptation and health resilience into its national policy. In its latest Nationally Determined Contribution, China aims to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060, while building a climate-resilient society by 2035.
The Ministry of Ecology and Environment has established the world’s largest ecological monitoring network, covering cities, river basins, and coastal areas to track water, air, soil, and noise pollution.
Patrick Kinney, Boston University: "I’ve been impressed by China’s rapid advances and the way it translates evidence into policy."
Chen Deliang, Tsinghua University: "China and the U.S. are the two big nations… If they lead, the world will follow."
As climate and health challenges intensify, the calls for bold, united action grow louder. The message is clear: when China and the U.S. step up, humanity stands a better chance. 💪
Reference(s):
Global experts urge China-U.S. leadership in climate, health actions
cgtn.com
