Climate Change, Environment, and One Health

Global epidemiological studies have revealed that climate change has led to a decrease in biodiversity and has been responsible for the pollution of air, water, and food, including the presence of microplastics. These factors have contributed to the rise of various non-communicable diseases (NCDs). As a result, the overall expenses related to healthcare, work productivity, mental health, and the economic situation of nations, particularly those with limited resources, have been adversely affected. The human exposome, epithelial barriers, microbiome and immune system are all affected leading to an impact on immune health. These have led to a higher prevalence of NCDs such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, cancer, asthma and allergies. Vulnerable and underserved populations such as children, pregnant women, migrants those with underlying disease, the elderly and indigenous people are particularly burdened by the health effects of climate change. Wild and domestic animals and food chains are also severely affected by the same factors. One Health is an interdisciplinary approach calling for collaborative efforts of working locally, nationally, and globally, to attain optimal health for people, animals and our environment because of their interconnectedness. To reverse planetary degradation, achieve sustainability and reduce the risk of potential disease outbreaks a multidisciplinary, cross-sector, and transborder approach under G20’s leadership to change practices and policies at every level, from global to local is needed.