Move to mitigate to reduce carbon emissions can significantly improve the health of the country’s population and could save billions of dollars and thousands of lives each year, a new report has found.

 

The Our Uncashed Divided: The Health Benefits of Climate Action report, jointly released by the Climate and health Alliance (CAHA) and the Climate Institute, draws on a growing body of evidence that connects substantial health benefits from measures to cut emissions.

 

“Evidence from around the world suggests we’re missing out if we don’t cash in on the big health dividend that cutting emissions can deliver,” report author and CAHA Convenor Fiona Armstrong said.

 

“Cleaner energy, cycling and walking, protecting bushland, energy efficient buildings and low-carbon food choices all contribute to less chronic illnesses, including heart and lung disease, certain cancers, obesity, diabetes, and depression.”

 

“One recent global study, for instance, found that for every tonne of carbon dioxide they avoid countries could save an average of $46 in health costs—around twice Australia’s starting price for carbon.”

 

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has welcomed the release of the report, saying that it is evidence of a need to adopt a National Strategy for Health and Climate Change.

 

AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, said the report is a welcome addition to the evidence for the need to develop such a strategy.

 

“The AMA wants to see a national strategic approach to climate change and health, and we want health professionals to play an active and leading role in educating the public about the impacts and health issues associated with climate change,” Dr Hambleton said.

 

 The full report can be found here