Fiji has formally committed to the COP26 Health Initiatives on climate resilience and sustainable low carbon health systems and facilities.
This comes as the World Health Organisation said climate change is resulting in poorer health outcomes and increasing mortality and it is a driver of health inequities.
Health Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete said in the midst of the pandemic Fiji had to recover from extreme weather events and manage the resulting health impacts.
Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete. Photo: Fiji govt
He said it has shown Fiji that health systems and facilities are the main line of defence in protecting populations from emerging threats.
Dr Waqainabete said that now is the time to increase Fiji's commitment to a safer, more sustainable and inclusive future for all.
As part of the COP26 Health Initiative, Fiji has committed to conducting a climate change vulnerability and adaptation assessment of the country's health system, health care facilities and the health of its population.
It will also review and strengthen its Health National Adaptation Plan and develop a roadmap for a climate-resilient health system, and for a net-zero emissions health sector before 2045.