Climate change significantly affects our health by altering social and environmental conditions, such as causing extreme heat waves, increasing air pollution, and impacting mental health and overall well-being. Vulnerable populations are especially hard hit, exacerbating existing health inequalities.

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Why Net Zero Policies Matter

All G7 countries have committed to Net Zero emission targets, leading to the development and implementation of various Net Zero actions. These actions can have complex effects on our social and environmental systems, like air quality and behaviour, which are all interconnected and impact health equity. However, current Net Zero policies often overlook these broader health impacts, leading to major drawbacks:

1. Potential Health Risks: Some Net-Zero actions might inadvertently harm public health. For example:
   • Transitioning to electric vehicles could reduce active travel, leading to less physical activity, and might increase urban ozone and non-exhaust particle exposure.
   • Housing decarbonization measures, like biofuel combustion and better insulation, could worsen indoor/outdoor air pollution and allergen exposure.
2. Missed Health Benefits: Optimized Net Zero policies can significantly improve physical and mental health. Studies show that well-designed policies can provide major health co-benefits and effectively address health inequalities.

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The Role of WM Net Zero

WM Net Zero aims to bridge the gap in current policymaking by linking socio-environmental systems (such as air quality, physical activity, heat, and noise) with Net-Zero goals. By focusing on optimal health outcomes rather than just legal compliance, we can ensure the best results for both our environment and public health.

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