Staying Healthy

‘Climate Change’ has been described as one of the greatest challenges facing the world (Department of Energy and Climate Change, 2010).

Health in the UK may be affected by climate change as a result of the global impacts.  For example, crop failures may lead to rising prices or possible food shortages and conflict over water, land, and food may lead to mass migration of displaced people.

The direct consequences of climate change for the UK could be an increase in mortality and morbidity from severe changes in temperature and weather (floods and storms); food poisoning as the instances of food-borne infection rise with warmer temperatures; respiratory problems from the damage to surface ozone during the summer and mould growth in homes; skin cancer and cataracts; insect-borne disease from an increase in flies and fleas; and psychological stress.

Evidence suggests that greenhouse gas emissions (like carbon dioxide and methane) are contributing to climate change.  There are four main causes of greenhouse gas emissions:

• Energy—used to heat, light and run homes and workplaces

• Transport—for shopping and leisure, at work and to distribute goods

• Food industry—production, transportation and retail

• Production of all other goods and services (excluding food)

For further information please check the links section and our Climate Change and Health factsheet.

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