From November 30 to December 12, the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) took place at Expo 2020 Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The conference marked a pivotal moment in global climate governance, conducting the inaugural “Global Stocktake” of the Paris Agreement's implementation and serving as a crucial milestone in global climate governance.
On December 9, the Vanke School of Public Health (VSPH), in collaboration with the Vanke Foundation, co-hosted a side event titled “Addressing Climate Change to Protect Human Health” at the Biosphere Solution Pavilion.
Dr. Margaret Chan, Founding Dean of VSPH and Emeritus Director-General of WHO, delivered a video speech. She emphasized VSPH’s commitment to climate change and health issues through collaborative efforts with the Vanke Foundation, “this collaboration has been instrumental in connecting scientific evidence with policy and social.” Additionally, VSPH is collaborating with the World Meteorological Organization to jointly address global challenges in meteorology, climate change, earth sciences, and public health.
Dr. Margaret Chan’s video address
Mr. Wang Shi, Founder and Honorary Chairman of China Vanke Co., Ltd., and President of the Vanke Foundation, expressed in his address that health challenges arising from climate change necessitate global collaboration. The participation of VSPH at COP28, supported by the Vanke Foundation, symbolizes its dedication to addressing climate change issues. Wang expressed his hope for continued collaboration to contribute to the health and well-being of humanity.
Mr. Wang Shi delivers his speech
During the conference, experts from VSPH, including Professor Huang Cunrui and Associate Professor John Ji, discussed climate-related health risks, the development of early warning systems, and the synergies between energy transition and health. These discussions aimed to share experiences and enhance collaboration to collectively address the health risks posed by climate change.
Side event: “Addressing Climate Change to Protect Human Health”
On December 11, the Vanke Foundation hosted a side event at COP28 China Pavilion titled "Public Participation in Global Climate Action." Dr. Margaret Chan delivered a speech, Professor Huang Cunrui gave a keynote presentation, and Associate Professor John Ji participated in the panel discussion. Focusing on public participation in global climate action, the event showcased outstanding Chinese practices and international experiences related to raising public awareness of climate risks, engaging in climate action, and changing behavior.
Professor Huang Cunrui delivers a keynote speech
Associate Professor John Ji delivers a keynote speech
Group photo of attendees
Professors Huang and Ji were also invited to participate in various activities at the China Pavilion, engaging in in-depth discussions with government officials, business leaders, youth groups, and philanthropists from around the world. Their presence highlighted the sustainable, multidimensional, and ambitious actions taken by China to address climate change.
On December 2, the COP28 Presidency and the World Health Organization jointly announced the “Declaration on Climate and Health” to accelerate action in protecting people's health from the growing impacts of climate change. Signed by 123 countries, this historic declaration recognizes the need for governments to protect communities and prepare healthcare systems to address climate-related health impacts such as heatwaves, air pollution, and infectious diseases.
The declaration addresses a range of specific actions related to climate and health, including building more resilient healthcare systems to climate change, enhancing inter-sectoral cooperation to reduce emissions and maximize health benefits, and increasing funding for climate and health solutions. Signatory countries also commit to incorporating health goals into national climate plans, strengthening international cooperation to address health risks associated with climate change.
COP28 witnessed active participation and impactful contributions from VSPH. The school’s engagement in side events, discussions, and collaborations underscored its commitment to addressing the intricate nexus of climate change and public health on the global stage. The Declaration on Climate and Health further exemplifies China’s dedication to mobilizing global efforts and resources to safeguard human health in the face of climate challenges.
