Report: Summary
for policymakers
Through high-quality scientific data, the Lancet Countdown works to inform policies that can maximise the health benefits of climate action, and enable a world in which all people can thrive.
The 2025 Report warns that health impacts of climate change are worsening, with millions dying needlessly each year due to fossil fuel dependence, growing greenhouse gas emissions, and failure to adequately adapt.
This summary for policymakers highlights health and climate priorities to protect and promote health.
Key Messages
DELAYS IN CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION ARE INCREASINGLY COSTING LIVES AND LIVELIHOODS
Millions of people die needlessly each year due to fossil fuel dependence, growing greenhouse gas emissions, and failure to adequately adapt to climate change. Health risks and impacts of climate change are worse than ever before across 13 of 20 impact indicators.
BACKSLIDING ON CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION IS PUTTING PEOPLE IN HARM’S WAY
Fossil fuel investments are growing, adaptation finance remains insufficient, and energy-related emissions reached unprecedented levels. With adaptation becoming increasingly costly and challenging, reversal of climate commitments poses unprecedented threatens to human lives and wellbeing.
CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION OFFERS A LIFELINE
The life-saving impact of the limited action delivered is already being felt, and global momentum is building for further action. Countries leading the transition are already enjoying health and economic gains. Meanwhile local and grassroots leadership is building momentum for a healthier future, from the bottom up.
Summary for policymakers
Dive into the findings and their implications – a must-read for anyone shaping climate and health policy.
Country resources
Download country data sheets and policy briefs that explore the latest findings at a national level