Climate and Health - A summary of knowledge

Abstract

In summary, we believe that climate change is a major threat to our health. The greatest direct threats are: 1. Lack of food and clean water 2. Heatwaves 3. Changing spectrum of disease Secondary effects may be at least as serious, and include increased risk of conflicts due to lack of food, water and arable land, as well as increased migration. The effects on people’s mental health are also likely to be significant; primarily among those who are directly affected by extreme weather events, for example, but also in the form of greater worry and anxiety about the consequences of a changing climate. Globally, the effects are very unevenly distributed, and rising temperatures will hit poor countries hardest of all, while in the Nordic region the effects are likely to be less serious from the global perspective. Nevertheless, we are already seeing the effects of a warmer climate in the shape of increased risk of heatwaves and forest fires. We still have a lot to gain in this part of the world from limiting climate impact as much as possible!