The carbon footprints of obesity, chronic disease and population growth: four things doctors can do.

Abstract

Obesity, ill health and global warming are linked. The risks to health of climate change have been well articulated but have not been accompanied by clear policy and effective action. Four areas where doctors can and should act, and where changes will benefit both the environment and human health in the short-to-medium term are: reduction in the adverse environmental impact of the health care industry; development of a nationwide comprehensive food and nutrition policy that takes account of the entire food production cycle; urban redesign to encourage active transport; and more support for sexual and reproductive health services in developing countries. Finally, climate change policies should be assessed for their impact on global health and equity.