Six climate and health actions could save 1.6 million lives every year

A new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that six proven climate and health actions could save an estimated 1.6 million lives every year while generating trillions of dollars in economic benefits

Released on 4 November 2026, the report highlights how practical investments in public health and climate actions could protect communities, reduce harmful emissions and strengthen economies worldwide.

The findings come ahead of COP31, where governments are expected to discuss their climate commitments and plans to tackle the growing impacts of climate change.

The six actions that could make a difference

The WHO report identifies six key measures that could significantly improve public health while helping to address climate change. These include:

Introducing heat-health warning systems to protect people during extreme temperatures.
Improving access to climate-resilient drinking water.

• Expanding basic sanitation services.
• Providing better hygiene and handwashing facilities.
• Supporting cleaner household fuels and cooking technologies.
• Introducing more effective fossil fuel pricing policies.

All of these measures could prevent 1.6 million deaths annually and help to avoid 16.7 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. This is equivalent to around 31% of global annual greenhouse gas emissions, excluding emissions from land use and forestry.

Trillions in economic benifits

Alongside the health benefits, scaling up these actions could generate an estimated US$3.9 trillion in economic welfare benefits each year, plus a further US$5.4 trillion in government fiscal benefits.

The report also found that, across five of the six measures, every US$1 invested could deliver approximately US$24 in benefits.

Heat-health warning systems were identified as particularly cost-effective, potentially generating US$835 in benefits for every US$1 invested. These systems can help communities prepare for extreme heat and reduce heat-related illness and deaths.

Better climate investment

Efficient fossil fuel pricing policies could deliver the largest overall gains. Removing inefficient subsidies and introducing appropriate taxes on fossil fuels could prevent 1.2 million deaths while generating US$3 trillion in annual economic welfare benefits.

The WHO is urging governments, development partners and financial institutions to invest in these proven solutions.

The report highlights that climate action is not just about reducing emissions. It is also an opportunity to improve public health, reduce inequalities and create stronger economies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.