AMA declare climate change health emergency

The Australian Medical Association has declared climate change a “health emergency”.

Dr Tony Bartone, president of the Australian Medical Association. Picture: Gary Ramage

The Australian Medical Association has declared climate change a “health emergency”.

The motion, which was announced by the peak medical body on Tuesday, said climate change was real and would “have the earliest and most severe health consequences on vulnerable populations around the world”.

“The Federal Council recognises climate change as a health emergency, with clear scientific evidence indicating severe impacts for our patients and communities now and into the future,” the motion reads.

“The AMA commits to working with government agencies and other organisations to prioritise actions in line with the AMA’s 2015 Position Statement on Climate Change and Human Health.”

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The AMA also called on the Morrison government to promote a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, adopt mitigation targets within an Australian carbon budget and promote the health benefits of addressing climate change.

AMA president Tony Bartone said there is “no doubt” climate change is a health emergency. “The AMA accepts the scientific evidence on climate change and its impact on human health and human wellbeing,” Mr Bartone said in a statement.

He said climate change would cause higher mortality and morbidity from heat stress, severe weather events and food insecurity.

“The AMA is proud to join the international and local chorus of voices urging action to address climate change on health grounds.”

The American Medical Association, the British Medical Association and Doctors for the Environment Australia have all recognised climate change as a health emergency.