Uncovering the impact of climate change on public health
The links between the climate crisis and public health have been overlooked for too long, with health only featuring on the COP agenda for the first time at COP28 in 2023. Climate impacts such as extreme heat and flooding increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable communities and those already facing inequalities.
Health must be central to efforts to both mitigate and adapt to climate change. Our work encourages and supports the government in recognising both the risks of inaction and the benefits of integrating climate and health strategies to deliver better outcomes on both fronts.
Rising to the mental health challenge of climate change
In this report, we highlight the UK’s lack of preparedness for the mental health impacts of climate change and the urgent need for stronger policy responses. We recommend integrating mental health into climate adaptation plans, improving emergency response strategies and committing to international action to better protect communities from worsening climate-related stresses.
Protecting people in the UK from extreme heat
In this report, we highlight the urgent need for the UK to strengthen its approach to heat resilience and climate adaptation, ensuring homes, infrastructure and communities are protected as extreme heat events become more frequent. We recommend an immediate review of the National Adaptation Programme, the introduction of clear targets for heat resilience and stronger government coordination to drive faster action.
Why we need to talk about health and climate: an essay collection
In this collection of essays, Green Alliance has brought together healthcare and climate experts, which sets out the broad interconnection between climate change and public health such as poor diets, racism and a struggling UK health service.
Tackling air pollution
Air pollution is a health and environmental emergency in the UK, with up to 36,000 people dying prematurely every year as a result of dirty air. The UK persistently breaches air pollution legal limits, and action to tackle this issue has been extremely slow.
The case for clean air zones
In this report, we show that clean air zones are the most effective way to tackle urban air pollution. Despite concerns about fairness and economic impact, evidence from across Europe proves they work. We outline how targeted measures—such as financial support, better public transport, and community engagement—can ensure clean air zones benefit both people and businesses.
The London-wide expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone
Ahead of the expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone on 29 August 2023, this briefing was published to explain the reasons why it was needed from the perspectives of environment, health, equality and the economy.
Clearing the air: green strategy for a healthier city
Air pollution is one of the most pressing issues faced by London today. Affecting both public health and the environment, improving air quality is essential to making the city a safer and more sustainable place to live.
In this podcast from 2023, Sophie O’Connell sits down with Shirley Rodrigues, London’s then Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, to discuss the rationale behind the planned ULEZ expansion and what it means for Londoners and the environment.
