With the world nearing critical climate thresholds, global health and climate experts are urging for immediate and coordinated actions—led by China and the United States—to safeguard humanity from the increasing health risks posed by a warming planet.

During the 5th World Health Forum in Beijing this weekend, the crucial link between climate change and public health took center stage. The event's theme, 'Climate Change and Health: Responsibility, Governance, and a Shared Future for Mankind,' underscored how global health governance is evolving in response to the challenges imposed by climate change.

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who currently chairs the Boao Forum for Asia, opened the conference by stressing the necessity for nations to come together in solidarity to tackle health issues stemming from climate change, particularly emphasizing the roles of China and the U.S.

"I appeal to you all who are here today and who are listening to this meeting and all our political and civil society leaders to work together to address the most urgent and imminent threat to our humanity and the planet Earth," Ban stated, urging for decisive action to ensure sustainability for future generations.

A report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts a 70 percent chance that the five-year average temperature from 2025 to 2029 will exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, which is the critical threshold established by the Paris Agreement. The WMO has confirmed that 2024 was the warmest year on record, reaching approximately 1.55 degrees Celsius above the 1850-1900 baseline.

The implications of rising temperatures are profound, impacting global health through deteriorating air quality, an increase in heat-related illnesses, and transforming patterns of infectious diseases.

In recent years, China has made significant strides in integrating climate adaptation and health resilience into its national policy, a development recognized by international scientists.

China has reiterated its commitment to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and aims for carbon neutrality by 2060 under its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The nation plans to construct a climate-resilient society by 2035, incorporating health, environmental, and disaster response frameworks.

The Ministry of Ecology and Environment reported that China has established the largest ecological and environmental monitoring network globally, covering all prefecture-level cities and overseeing key river basins. This network monitors various environmental aspects, including water, air, soil, and noise pollution.

Experts advocate that China's comprehensive systems present a viable model for merging environmental governance with public health outcomes. Patrick Kinney from Boston University observed that China, acknowledging climate change as a significant threat, has rapidly mobilized resources to enhance research and effectively translate findings into policy.

Prominent climate scientist Chen Deliang highlighted that China's national strategy on climate adaptation serves as a commendable global example. He stated, 'China and the U.S. are the two major nations. If both truly set a good example in leadership, the world will follow,' emphasizing the responsibility both countries hold in addressing these critical issues.