Who we are
The Prescription for a Healthy Planet is a joint initiative of Health Care Without Harm (HCWH) and the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) and the Climate and Health Council (CHC).
The Prescription is intended as a clear roadmap for the health community that sets out the magnitude of the problem of climate change, highlights the unique role of the public health community and healthcare professionals in addressing it, and provides options to “treat” climate change through policy recommendations.
The Prescription for a Healthy Planet is part of our effort to bring the health community into the negotiations leading up to Copenhagen in a tangible way. It will also help build a Global Network for Climate Friendly Healthcare beyond Copenhagen organised by HCWH and HEAL in collaboration with WHO.
Health Care Without Harm
is an international coalition of more than 470 organizations in 52 countries working to transform the health care sector so it is no longer a source of harm to people and the environment.
HCWH’s climate campaign works globally to:
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Address the health impacts of climate change
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Reduce the climate footprint of the health sector
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Mobilise the health sector to advocate for strong climate mitigation and adaptation policies at the local, national and global levels
Climate and Health Council
has given special focus to the perspectives of the global south and equity. The council believes that any framework for tackling climate change must have three ingredients:
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A scientifically-assessed and globally binding commitment to cap and reduce carbon emissions to avoid atmospheric concentrations greater than 450ppm, recognising that this target may be subject to revision in light of further scientific information.
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A mechanism for ensuring that resources are transferred to those countries where both living standards and fossil fuel use have been low. These resources include those needed to enable population stabilisation, and preservation of forests.
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An approach to development which, by giving people the capability of, and incentive to make low carbon choices, minimises green house gas emissions.
Health and Environment Alliance
raises awareness of how environmental protection improves health. By creating opportunities for better representation of the perspectives of citizens, patients and health professionals and health experts, we work towards more protective environment and health-related European policy-making.
HEAL membership includes a diverse network of over 60 organisations of public health, health professional, patients, women, health professionals and environmental representatives in 26 countries across Europe.
HEAL’s health-proofing climate change campaign aims to:
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Highlight the health impact and costs of climate change,
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Share best practice on adaptation strategies and identify gaps, and
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Mobilise the health community to advocate for policies that contribute to limiting climate change, particularly by raising awareness of health concerns and encouraging the healthcare sector to adopt health-friendly, energy efficient policies.
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