Ranking Member Lofgren Statement on the 2023 Lancet Health and Climate Change Global Report
(WASHINGTON, D.C.)— Yesterday, The Lancet, a peer-reviewed medical journal, launched its 2023 Countdown on Health and Climate Change Global Report and U.S. Policy Brief. The report and brief highlight the severe and escalating impact of climate change on public health. The report reveals alarming projections for the near future, pointing out that in 2022, individuals were exposed to an average of 86 days of health-threatening high temperatures, primarily driven by human-caused climate change. It underlines the urgency of decisive action across the globe to address climate change, emphasizing the imminent risks to human health without such measure.
“I am deeply concerned by the findings of the 2023 Lancet Countdown Report,” said Ranking Member Lofgren. “The report indicates the severe health risks posed by the current trajectory of climate change, including a significant increase in heat-related deaths. The climate crisis is not felt equally by all, as underserved communities often bear the brunt of its impacts. Health inequities and infectious disease spread fueled by climate change show the need for immediate and comprehensive action. These findings reinforce the critical role of policy interventions and technological advancements in mitigating climate change and safeguarding public health. Climate solutions, like fusion energy science, offer enormous promise as we work to lower emissions and decarbonize. We must advance support for this limitless, emission-free energy solution. There is no time to waste; we must act now to protect communities worldwide, especially the most vulnerable, from the devastating impacts of climate change.”
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