05/06/2026
Climate change is an escalating crisis, with severe and accelerating health consequences. Amongst all WHO regions, the South-East Asia Region records the highest number of deaths from climate change annually.1 Air pollution causes millions of deaths each year, while increasing heatwaves are also increasing illness and mortality. Extreme weather events damage infrastructure, trigger outbreaks of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, displace millions, and disrupt health supply chains.2 Food and nutritional insecurity and risks to mental health and psychosocial wellbeing are growing.
This year, World Environment Day is being observed under the theme "Climate Action," a recognition that awareness is no longer sufficient, and that the imperative is implementation.
